Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18)

@EssexCountyFA EssexFootball EssexFA www.essexfa.com Under 12s Cup Final Chief Executive's Report

2017/18 was a successful one for Essex grassroots football, with many notable The FA National Game Strategy (NGS) was also refreshed and extended to 2021, achievements, but was also one where further steps of change took place for setting a new strategic direction for the grassroots game, covering the following areas: the Essex County FA. • High-Quality Introduction to Football During the season, the focus was to continue to develop and support the local • Embrace All Formats, Engage All Participants grassroots game, along with continuing to deliver the Essex County FA Business Plan • Develop Clubs and Leagues 2015-19. Some of the key successes during the season are detailed through this report, • Recruit, Develop and Support the Football Workforce but a few highlights include: This formed the basis of reviewing the existing County FA Business Plan to refresh and • the female game continued to grow, both in the number of affiliated teams but also update it in-line with the NGS. This led to the development of the ‘Moving Forward’ through the SSE Wildcats Programme which has had a positive impact on girls’ wider Strategy 2018-2021 which is our setting the strategic direction up to 2021. This sets the recreational participation and the Essex County FA Female Regional Talent Club overall vision for the Essex County FA: “Creating a united grassroots football environment continued to provide an elite level development pathway for girls which delivers football opportunity for all”. • our coach education continued to deliver high levels of training, with more than 2,500 learners undertaking education courses with the Essex County FA, along with 2017/18 also saw a change from a ‘calendar’ to a ‘season’ company year. This first season more than 600 coaches undertaking ongoing learning through CPD (Continuing impact of this can be seen in the finance and accounts section of the report. The value of Professional Development) this will be seen over time but, importantly, now the company year runs in tandem with the • more than 1,300 referees supporting grassroots football football season, we will be able to build more accurate insight into company performance. • more than 4,000 teams playing football in Essex, from mini-soccer through to Walking Football It was also agreed to begin a process to appoint our first Independent Director, which began in June 2018. This will be concluded in the early part of the 2018/19 season and Safeguarding continued to play an important role. The process of ‘Safeguarding Visits’ it represents an exciting change for us, as well as an opportunity to bring new insight at club training venues continued and more than 256 teams visited and 310 coaches and experience to support the organisation. and more than 464 parents/spectators spoken to as part of those visits in Essex. This continued to embed and ensure strong safeguards are in place for all young The 2017/18 campaign has been a season of successes and change but, underpinning and vulnerable people involved in the game. all of this activity, and the ongoing success of grassroots football in Essex, is the volunteers who support their respective leagues, clubs and teams to ensure thousands of people get to play football on a weekly basis.

Thanks to each and every one of you. We look forward to working as part of your team for 2018/19.

Brendan Walshe Chief Executive and Company Secretary

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 3 Council

Wayne Deller continued as Chairman of the Council. There were a number of elections held on Council and the Essex County FA also said goodbye to long-serving Council Members Duncan Charlick, Michael Wilmore, Chris Singh, Alan Dare and Chris Lee.

Duncan Charlick was first appointed to Council in 2002 as Youth Representative for Group 2, Michael Wilmore in 2009 (Open-Age), Chris Singh in 2010 (initially as Women & Girls Rep and then latterly as Open-Age Rep for Group 2), Alan Dare in 2013 (Open-Age) and Chris Lee (Essex Referees Association), also in 2013.

We would like to place on record our thanks for the service provided and wish everyone success in their future roles within football. The Council also undertook change to its structure during the 2017/18 season which would see a reduction In Open-Age Representatives in each Group Area from three to two being phased in.

In-line with this, the following individuals were re-elected onto Council: Dave Threadgold (Group 1 Open-Age), Roger Crane (Group 1 Open-Age), Alec Berry (Group 3 Open-Age). Graham Hall also continued to serve as the Essex County Schools FA Representative.

The volunteer Council Members again undertook their regulatory and management role and they were involved in many Council, disciplinary, refereeing, competitions and rules meetings throughout the 2017/18 season.

2017/18 Council Members: Morris Jeffers, Gordon Snell, John Bays, Richard Brooks, Michael Hemsted, Edward Rhymes, Michael Game, Keith Miller, Jeffrey Saxton, Alec Berry, David Threadgold, Duncan Charlick, Sheryl Macrae, David Emerton, Wayne Deller, Roger Crane, Michael Willmore, Christopher Singh, Barry Fitzgerald, Kevin Curran, Mark Holmes, Chris Lee, Alan Dare, Graham Hall, Andy Chaplin, Martin Berry, Kim Farmer, Danny Coyle.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 4 The Board

We saw one change take place in June, with David Threadgold retiring from his position on the Board due to serving for twelve years.

In conjunction with Council, it was agreed to not directly replace David with an existing Council Member but to recruit an Independent Director through an open application process which would take place during the summer of 2018.

Wayne Deller remained as Chairman and David Threadgold, Barry Fitzgerald and Andrew Chaplin continued as Directors of the Essex County FA. The Board continued to oversee all matters of company operations.

Staffing

By the end of June 2018, the County FA employed 24 members of staff - 20 full time and four part time. In addition, we continue to have around 70 casual employees who carry out coaching, tutoring and physiotherapy roles.

There was a period of reorganisation within the staff team during the 2017/18 season which saw Sam Robinson and Kevin Watts depart to take up posts within the education and local authority sports development sectors. Maryanne Dennis also departed following maternity leave.

There were a number of new recruits, with Lukas Wood as Referee Development Officer, Jennifer King as Office Coordinator and PA, Jake Stephenson as Football Development Officer and James Ellis, also as Football Development Officer, all recruited to the Essex County FA.

2017/18 Staff: Brendan Walshe, Greg Hart, Fran Smith, Mark Wallis, Robert Craven, Anna Eborall, Chris Evans, Nick Emery, Lana Gillard, Emma Burden, Sean Harris, Andrew Crowl, James Lisher, Helen Hever, Sue Hammond, Maryanne Dennis, Cindi Chatha, Kevin Watts, Sam Robinson, Rhys Elmer, Danielle Warnes, Nicola Crowl, Lawrence Gower, Joanna Miles, Lukas Wood, Jennifer King, Jake Stephenson, James Ellis.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 5 Directors’ Report

For the Year Ended 30th June 2018 Under company law, the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company The directors present their annual report and financial statements for the year and of the surplus or deficit of the company for that period. In preparing these financial ended 30th June 2018. statements, the directors are required to:

Principal activities: The principal activity of the company continued to be that • select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; of administration of football in the county of Essex. • make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; • prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate Directors: The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of signature to presume that the company will continue in business. of the financial statements were as follows: DA Threadgold (Resigned, 7th June 2018), WA Deller, BJ Fitzgerald, A Chaplin, DJ Emerton. The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy Directors’ Insurance: The company maintains insurance policies on behalf of all the at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the directors against liability arising from negligence, breach of duty and breach of trust financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. in relation to the company. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for Auditor: In accordance with the company’s articles, a resolution proposing that Rickard taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Luckin Limited be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting. Statement of Disclosure to Auditor: So far as each person who was a director at the date Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities: The directors are responsible for preparing of approving this report is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and company’s auditor is unaware. regulations. Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Additionally, the directors individually have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make themselves aware of all relevant audit Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in information and to establish that the company’s auditor is aware of that information. accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the small companies exemption.

On behalf of the board,

WA Deller Director 11th September 2018

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 6 Independent Auditors’ Report

Opinion: We have audited the financial statements of Essex County Football Association Conclusions Relating To Going Concern: We have nothing to report in respect of the Limited (the ‘company’) for the year ended 30th June 2018 which comprise the income following matters in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you where: and expenditure account, the balance sheet and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. • the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate; or The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable • the directors have not disclosed in the financial statements any identified material law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting uncertainties that may cast significant doubt about the company’s ability to continue Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally to adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period of at least twelve months Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements: from the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

• give a true and fair view of the state of the company’s affairs as at 30th June 2018 Other Information: The directors are responsible for the other information. The other and of its surplus for the year then ended; information comprises the information included in the Annual Report, other than the • have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. Accounting Practice; and • have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form Basis For Opinion: We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards of assurance conclusion thereon. on Auditing (UK) (ISAs [UK]) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the financial statements section of our report. other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or We are independent of the company in accordance with the ethical requirements that otherwise appears to be materially misstated. are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 7 Opinions On Other Matters Prescribed By The Companies Act 2006: In our opinion, Auditor’s Responsibilities For The Audit Of The Financial Statements: Our objectives are to based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit: obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report • the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the that includes our opinion. financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and • the Directors’ Report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit requirements. conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Matters On Which We Are Required To Report By Exception: In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Directors’ Report. or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. • adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit This description forms part of our auditor’s report. have not been received from branches not visited by us; or • the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and Use Of Our Report: This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, returns; or in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has • certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters • we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. • the directors were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies’ exemption To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone in preparing the Directors’ Report and take advantage of the small companies' other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, exemption from the requirement to prepare a strategic report. for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Responsibilities Of Directors: As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities Terri Smith (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Rickard Luckin Limited statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements (Chartered Accountants, Statutory Auditor), Aquila House, Waterloo Lane, Chelmsford, and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control Essex, CM1 1BN. 28th September 2018 as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 8 Income and Expenditure Account

For the Period Ended 30th June 2018

Year ended 6 Month Period 30 June 2018 ended 30 June 2017 £ £

Income 868,818 420,749 Cost of income (564,849) (313,698) ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Gross Surplus 303,969 107,051

Administrative expenses (926,912) (440,420) Other operating income 646,412 293,489 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 23,469 (39,880)

Interest receivable and similar income 23,480 5,202 Amounts written back to investments 27,864 24,045 measured at fair value ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Surplus/(Deficit) Before Taxation 74,813 (10,633)

Tax on surplus/(deficit) (1,548) 2,407 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Awards Evening Surplus/(Deficit) for the Financial Year 73,265 (8,226)

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 9 Schedule of Administrative Expenses

As At 30th June 2018 Notes 2018 2017 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions £ £ applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime.

Fixed Assets Under Section 454 of the Companies Act, on a voluntary basis, the directors can Tangible assets 3 673,326 678,616 amend these financial statements if they are subsequently proved to be defective. Investments 4 1,140,807 1,098,459 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised Current Assets 5 1,814,133 1,777,075 for issue on 11th September 2018 and are signed on its behalf by: Debtors 66,224 44,232 Cash at bank and in hand 970,501 1,100,051 WA Deller A Chaplin ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Director Director Creditors: Amounts Falling Due 6 1,036,725 1,144,283 Within One Year (268,469) (407,548) Company Registration No. 03843186 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Net Current Assets 768,256 736,735 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Total Assets Less Current Liabilities 2,582,389 2,513,810 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Creditors: Amounts Falling Due 7 (136,252) (136,252) After More Than One Year ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Provisions for Liabilities (40,491) (45,177) ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Net Assets 2,405,646 2,332,381 ––––––––––––– ––––––––––––– Reserves Other reserves 9 60,577 60,577 Income and expenditure account 9 2,345,069 2,271,80 ––––––––––––– –––––––––––––

Members’ Funds 2,405,646 2,332,381 Hertfordshire 0-7 Essex Women ––––––––––––– –––––––––––––

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 10 Governance

Association Membership Figures

At the end of the 2017/18 season, the membership figures were as follows:

Affiliated Clubs 2017/18 Teams Senior 43 44 Step 7 24 25 Junior 698 970 Youth 278 2,814 Women 36 47 Girls 63 165 Totals 1,144 4,065

Discipline

Discipline 2017/18 2016/17 Cautions 16,457 16,961 Misconducts 1,198 1,530 Standard 1,750 1,912 Youth 19,405 20,403

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 11 Regulations and Sanctions

Appeals Player Registration

Season 2017/18 saw 13 appeals against league decisions being lodged with the Essex 17 leagues utilised the Player Registration through FA Full-Time during season 2017/18, County FA, compared to 14 in 2016/17. As in previous years, members of the Executive with 42,089 registrations created. There were some issues going through the registration Council presided over the appeals. The decisions were: 5 Upheld, 8 Dismissed. process, which eased as the season progressed. Discussions were being had with more leagues to implement the process during season 2018/19.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 12 Governance Strategy To lead the administration of football in Essex and create a fair and inclusive environment for all

In 2017/18...

18361,144 £16,648 36 4,065 LEARNERS ACROSS PROVIDED TO LEAGUES TEAMS CLUBSALL COACH ED CLUBS FOR PUBLIC COURSES LIABILITY INSURANCE

£56,156 20 20,403 PROVIDED TO CLUBS FOR COUNTY CUPS DISCIPLINE CASES PERSONAL ACCIDENT AND COMPETITIONS ADMINISTERED INSURANCE DELIVERED

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 13 Referees

FA Referee Courses Level 6 to Level 5 (County Referee to Senior County Referee)

This year we recruited and trained 339 trainee referees (formerly known Adekola Adeyemi (Basildon), Ayesemuate Agho (Harlow), Joe Alborough (Leigh-on-Sea), as Level 9s) from across Essex, who all successfully qualified over the 17 FA Leigh Ballinger (Basildon), Paul Bursey (Billericay), Connor Cranfield (Harlow), Referee Courses held. Callum Dorling (Harlow), Toby Enstone (Tiptree), Matthew Friend (Dagenham), Gemma Gardiner (Clacton-on-Sea), Cristiana Hattersley (Westcliff-on-Sea), Detailed below is a short review of the total number of basic candidates we trained Michael Iddenden-Smith (Purfleet), Paul Killoran (Upminster), Paul Lingard Snr (Benfleet), from July 2017 to June 2018. Simon Lyons (Halstead), Alan Moore (Billericay), Jack Ridge (Witham), Charlie Roberts (Romford), Errol Souter (Colchester), Neil Strachan (Witham), Promotion Adrian Summerfield (Basildon), James Tape (Basildon), Matthew Webb (Braintree)

Following the conclusion of the promotion season for 2017/18, the following Level 7 to Level 6 (Junior Referee to County Referee) referees were promoted to their new respective levels for season 2018/19: Mariusz Burchan (Braintree), David Cavanagh (Brentwood), Paul Clarke (Waltham Abbey), Promoted to National League Assistant Referees Panel Rhys Collins (Clacton-on-Sea), Richard Fox (Leigh-on-Sea), Adam Gordon (Shoeburyness), Conner Hodgkins (Clacton-on-Sea), Lee Jarvis (Grays), Nathan Kitteridge (Harlow), Ivo Aaron Farmer (Colchester), David Harrison (Basildon), Karl Sear (Chelmsford) Komsiyski (Woodford Green), Howard Mackler (Southminster), Charlie Nicholls (Billericay), Richard Ramjane (Chelmsford), Robert Reddy (Brentwood), Charlie Roberts (Romford), Level 4 to Level 3 Luke Scottow (Southend-on-Sea), Robert Steptoe (Brentwood), Neil Troubridge (Hornchurch), Robert Watson (Dunmow), Greig Williamson (Harlow) Rhys Battye (Thurrock), Brett Grant (Castle Point), Farai Hallam (Redbridge), Jamie Pope (Rochford), Craig Pullen (Havering), Jack Willmore (Tendring), Joe Wrigley (Halstead)

Level 5 to Level 4

Joe Burgess (Castle Point), Leo Del Rosso (Brentwood), Thomas Johnson (Harlow), Nathan Oakes (Colchester), Paul Sturton (Chelmsford), Sam Wigington (Thurrock)

Senior Cup Final Pelly Under 18s Cup Final Under 14s Girls Cup Final

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 14 Cup Final Officials

Congratulations to all the match officials who were nominated to receive a County FA Cup Final based on their on-field performances for season 2017/18:

Referee Assistant Referee Assistant Referee Fourth Official Senior Cup Dean Skipper Gary Jerden Aaron Farmer Rick Bloy Under 18s Girls Cup Christopher Noble Harry Arnot Oliver Walker Alfie Debono Saturday Junior Trophy Nathan Oakes Andrew French Neil Strachan Kevin Nicholson Sunday Veterans Cup Brett Grant Matthew Davis Adrian Rogers Kevin Curran Cordell Under 13s Cup Stephen Davies Jake Elwis Louis Ambrose Abdul Wahid Women’s Cup Stacey Ford Anthony Abbs Leigh Ballinger Harry Dunnett Sunday Junior Trophy Joe Burgess Sven Wood Matthew Webb Martin Weavers Sunday Junior Cup James Parks Nathan Kitteridge Simon Lyons Sam Wigington Women’s Trophy Cristiana Hattersley Michael Iddenden-Smith Connor Cranfield Mariusz Burchan Under 12s Cup Callum Townsend Alfie Treacher Leon Randall Amy Purser Under 14s Girls Cup Xanthe Davis Emilia Dingwall Harriet Kemp Amy Purser Saturday Junior Cup Thomas Whay Joe Aldborough Matthew Friend Adam Humphreys Rosser Under 15s Cup Christopher Fountain Rhys Collins Andrew Jenkins Matthew Jarvis Andrews Under 14s Cup Ryan Whitehead Adam Palmer Andy Palmer John Whitehead Pelly Under 18s Cup Farai Hallam Leo Del Rosso Charlie Roberts Jamie Pope Saturday Veterans Cup David Parker Jonathan Wing Andrew Gilham Brian Taylor Sunday Premier Cup Craig Pullen Paul Sturton Errol Souter Ayrton Hursey Under 16s Girls Cup Zak Johnson Jack Racey Edward Smith Lewis Cobden Cassells Under 16s Cup Asemateo Agho Gavin Bailey Stuart Henderson Max Di Lieto Saturday Premier Cup Lewis Farthing Harry Arnot Jack Ridge Ryan Smith

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 15 League Referee Coverage Report League Name Tier GP GC Coverage Difference Essex & Suffolk Border League 1 736 736 100.00% 0 With the Referees Department Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) switching from Chelmsford & District Churches League 2 41 41 100.00% 0 the number of referees registered in a season to referee coverage, as part of The Colchester & East Essex League 1 220 220 100.00% 0 FA’s National Game Strategy, we were asked to collate the leagues’ referee Essex Alliance League 2 768 768 100.00% 0 coverage statistics. Essex Senior League (Reserve Division) 1 155 155 100.00% 0 Therefore, detailed below is the 2017/18 referee coverage information, which has been Greene King Essex Veterans League 1 1,003 999 99.60% -4 collated into their respective categories from the responses received from our affiliated North Essex Veterans League 1 79 78 98.73% -1 leagues: Southend Borough & District Football Combination 1 453 427 94.26% -26 County Motor Works Vauxhall Mid-Essex League 1 760 760 100.00% 0 % Coverage Tier 1 Leagues Utilising Full-Time Baseline ProKit UK Essex Olympian League 1 1,050 1,050 100.00% 0 Basildon & District Sunday League 1 149 144 96.64% -5 Baseline Tier 2 Leagues With Other Appointing Systems 82% Calculator Braintree & North Essex Sunday League 1 331 331 100.00% 0 Tier 3 Leagues With No Formal Appointing System Brentwood Sunday League 1 464 454 97.84% -10 Chelmsford Invitation League 1 217 209 96.31% -8 Colchester & District Sunday League 2 448 448 100.00% 0 Dagenham & District Sunday League 1 100 98 98.00% -2 Essex Sunday Corinthian League 1 507 507 100.00% 0 Essex Sunday Football Combination 1 401 394 98.25 -7 Harlow & District Sunday League 1 419 419 100.00% 0 Pope & Smith Chelmsford Sunday League 1 495 472 95.35% -23 Romford & District Churches League 1 71 67 94.37% -4 Sceptre Sunday League 1 689 508 73.73% -181 Southend Borough Combination Veterans League 1 537 532 99.07% -5 Female Referee Development Group Southend Sunday League 1 328 304 92.68% -24 South Essex Sunday League 1 80 80 100.00% 0 Thurrock Association Sunday League 1 363 338 93.11% -25 Blackwater & Dengie Youth League 2 1,931 1,390 71.98% -541 Chelmsford Youth League 1 2,057 524 25.47% -1,533 Colchester & District Youth League 2 1,985 1,735 87.41% -250 Echo Junior League 2 1,991 1,444 72.53% -547 Southend & District Junior Sunday League 1 2,563 2,139 83.46% -424 Eastern Region Women’s League (Essex-Based) 1 75 75 100.00% 0 Essex County Women’s League 1 239 227 94.98% -12 Essex County Girls' League 1 910 480 94.98% -430 Referee Cup Final Seminar Overall Total 22,615 18,553 82.04% -4,062

Key: GP = Games Played, GC = Games Covered by Qualified Referee Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 16 Refereeing Strategy To recruit, retain, and develop a high-quality and diverse referee workforce to support football across Essex

In 2017/18...

1,331* 82% 18,553 10 166 REFEREES OF ALL 9v9 AND REFEREE FA REFEREE REFEREE 11v11 GAMES APPOINTMENTS TUTORS DEVELOPERS APPOINTED WITH (OBSERVERS & * PLUS A QUALIFIED MENTORS) ‘TRAINEE MATCH OFFICIAL REFEREES’

INDIVIDUAL20 OFFICIALS12 REPRESENTING REFEREE64 CANDIDATES339 COURSES ESSEX WITHIN FA CENTRE OF PROMOTIONS ON REFEREES REFEREEING EXCELLENCE (CORE) COURSES

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 17 Representative Squads 2017/18

Key: SECYC - South East Counties Youth Championship, Group A P W D L F A GD Pts FACYC - FA County Youth Cup, SCC - Southern Counties Cup Essex 3 3 0 0 10 4 +6 9 Under 18s Kent 3 2 0 1 7 5 +2 6 Middlesex 3 1 0 2 10 4 +6 3 Manager: Graham Hall

Suffolk (Home, Friendly) Won 2-1 Group B P W D L F A GD Pts Tuesday 26th September at Stanway Rovers FC, 7:30pm Sussex 4 3 1 0 12 5 +7 10 Bedfordshire (Home, FACYC R2) Won 5-1 Amateur Football Alliance 3 0 2 1 5 9 -5 2 Sunday 22nd October at Aveley FC, 3:00pm Hertfordshire 3 0 1 2 5 8 -2 1

Kent (Away, SECYC) Won 4-2 Winners of Groups A and B play-off for title Thursday 23rd November at Corinthian FC, 7:30pm Sussex (Neutral, SECYC Play-Off) Lost 2-3 (after extra time) Durham (Home, FACYC R3) Lost 0-4 Sunday 6th May at Sheppey United FC, 2:00pm Saturday 9th December at Maldon & Tiptree FC, 12:00pm

London (Away, SECYC) Won 4-1 Sunday 18th February at AFC Croydon Athletic, 1:00pm

Middlesex (Home, SECYC) Won 2-1 Sunday 11th March at Aveley FC, 2:00pm

Essex Women Essex Under 16s Essex Under 18s

Essex Under 18s 2-1 Middlesex

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 18 Under 16s Women

Managers: Carl Papworth and Liam Saxton Manager: Kim Coster

Kent (Home, SECYC) Drew 2-2 Royal Navy (Home, SCC) Drew 2-2 Thursday 26th October at Redbridge FC, 7:00pm Wednesday 4th October at Aveley FC, 7:45pm

Amateur Football Alliance (Away, SECYC) Won 3-1 Sussex (Away, SCC) Drew 3-3 Thursday 9th November at Waltham Forest FC, 7:30pm Wednesday 15th November at Lancing FC, 7:30pm Essex Under 18s

Middlesex (Away, SECYC) Lost 0-2 Hertfordshire (Away, SCC) Won 7-0 Sunday 28th January at Uxbridge FC, 1:00pm Wednesday 11th January at Hertfordshire County Ground, 7:45pm

Sussex (Home, SECYC) Lost 1-5 Kent (Home, SCC) Lost 0-2 Sunday 11th February at Aveley FC, 2:00pm Wednesday 7th February at Aveley FC, 7:45pm

London (Home, SEC) Lost 2-3 P W D L F A GD Pts Sunday 25th February at Aveley FC, 2:00pm Kent 4 4 0 0 13 4 +9 12 Middlesex 4 3 1 0 17 6 +11 10 P W D L F A GD Pts Army 4 2 0 2 7 7 0 6 Amateur Football Alliance 5 4 0 1 9 7 +2 12 4 1 2 1 12 7 +5 5 London 5 3 1 1 10 7 +3 10 Essex 4 0 3 1 10 11 -1 2* Sussex 5 2 2 1 11 6 +5 8 Royal Navy Middlesex 5 1 1 3 3 6 -3 4 Sussex 4 0 2 2 8 15 -7 2 Essex 5 1 1 3 8 13 -5 4 Hertfordshire 4 0 0 4 1 18 -17 0 Kent 5 0 3 2 7 9 -2 3 * Adjustment made

Representative Squads

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 19 County Cup Finals 2017/18

BBC Essex Senior Cup Sunday Veterans Cup Under 12s Cup Billericay Town 2-1 Chelmsford City Vincitori 1-3 Waltham Forest Barkingside (Blues) 3-0 Great Danes (Lions) Tuesday 20th March 2018, 7:45pm at Colchester United FC Sunday 25th March 2018, 3:00pm Sunday 15th April 2018, 11:00am at Burnham Ramblers FC at Great Wakering Rovers FC BBC Essex Saturday Premier Cup Under 18s Girls Cup Buckhurst Hill 2-0 Catholic United BBC Essex Women's Cup Barking Abbey (Reds) 4-1 Great Danes (Lions) Monday 7th May 2018, 3:00pm at Thurrock FC Billericay Town 2-3 C & K Basildon (after extra time) Wednesday 21st March 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC Thursday 13th April 2018, 7:30pm at AFC Hornchurch Saturday Junior Cup Under 16s Girls Cup Chingford Athletic 3-5 Oracle Components Women's Trophy C & K Basildon Girls (Under 15s) 3-2 West Ham United (after extra time) Hutton 2-1 Silver End United Sunday 29th April 2018, 10:30am at Concord Rangers FC Wednesday 18th April 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC Sunday 8th April 2018, 3:00pm at Saffron Walden Town FC Under 14s Girls Cup Saturday Junior Trophy Pelly Under 18s Cup Leigh Ramblers Girls (Blues) 0-1 West Ham United Corinthians Under 21s 4-4 Sandon Royals Canvey Island 0-2 Concord Rangers (after extra time) (after extra time, Corinthians won 3-2 on pens) Wednesday 25th April 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC Sunday 15th April 2018, 2:30pm at Burnham Ramblers FC Friday 21st March 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC Cassels Under 16s Cup Tolleshunt D'Arcy Memorial Cup Saturday Veterans Cup AFC Hornchurch 2-5 Maldon & Tiptree Brightlingsea Regent 1-0 FC Clacton Hutton Old Boys 3-2 Paringdon Friday 4th May 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC Tuesday 24th April 2018, 7:45pm Thursday 26th April 2018, 7:45pm at Concord Rangers FC at Brightlingsea Regent FC Rosser Under 15s Cup Sunday Premier Cup AFC Hornchurch 1-0 Concord Rangers Manor House 0-1 Priory Sports Sunday 22nd April 2018, 3:00pm at Concord Rangers FC Sunday 29th April 2018, 10:30am at Concord Rangers FC Andrews Under 14s Cup Sunday Junior Cup Billericay Town 4-2 Great Wakering Rovers Marquis 4-1 Palmers Sunday 22nd April 2018, 11:00am at Concord Rangers FC Sunday 8th April 2018, 10:30am at Saffron Walden Town FC Cordell Under 13s Cup Sunday Junior Trophy Billericay Town 2-3 Concord Rangers Rochford Sports & Social 1-3 Upshire Sunday 25th March 2018, 11:00am Friday 6th April 2018, 7:45pm at Aveley FC at Great Wakering Rovers FC

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 20 Essex Clubs in National Competitions 2017/18

Southend United completed the Sky Bet Football League One season in tenth Billericay Town also had an excellent season in the Emirates FA Cup, featuring on position, eight points away from a place in the play-offs. Essex’s other EFL BT Sport as they lost in the First Round Proper in a replay to Leatherhead. That ended Essex representatives, Colchester United, finished in 13th place in League Two, with representation in the competition, although Isthmian League North Division club Dagenham & Redbridge’s attempts to secure an expanded Vanarama National Heybridge Swifts also enjoyed a fine run to the First Round, losing 3-1 at League Two League play-off spot falling short by five points. Exeter City. Chelmsford City were defeated 2-0 away to National League Premier club Gateshead at the same stage. Braintree Town made an immediate return to the top tier of non-league football as manager Bradley Quinton superbly steered them through the play-offs, defeating It was a similar story in the FA Buildbase Trophy as Glenn Tamplin’s Billericay Town Hemel Hempstead Town, Dartford and Hampton & Richmond Borough, all away from extended their interest in the competition to the Quarter-Finals stage, eventually home. Chelmsford City were defeated by Hampton at the semi-final stage, withEast losing 5-2 at home to National League South side Wealdstone. In the preceding round, Thurrock United (15th) and Concord Rangers (17th) safe from relegation. East Thurrock United took National League North outfit Spennymoor Town to a replay before losing 5-2 at Rookery Hill. Billericay Town were crowned champions of the Bostik Isthmian League Premier Division, scoring over 100 goals in the process of holding off the challenge of Dulwich In the FA Youth Cup, Colchester United matched their best-ever run in the competition Hamlet. Brightlingsea Regent ended their inaugural campaign at Step 3 in 20th, just as they reached the Quarter-Finals before losing 5-1 to Arsenal, whilst Dagenham ahead of Harlow Town, but Thurrock resigned from senior football after completing & Redbridge progressed from the Second Qualifying Round to the Fourth Round before 33 years at that level. being edged out, 2-1, by Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

AFC Hornchurch won 32 of their 46 league matches as they claimed the Isthmian Hullbridge Sports made it to the Fourth Round Proper of the FA Buildbase Vase before League North Division title, but Bowers & PItsea, Heybridge Swifts and Canvey Island losing 5-1 to Tring Athletic, with Great Wakering Rovers falling one round previously. all failed to join them in the Premier Division via the play-offs. At the other end of the table, C & K Basildon Ladies were again knocked out of the FA Women’s Cup at the Second Romford avoided relegation in sensational fashion by winning their final two fixtures to Round stage, where they had been joined by Harlow Town of the Eastern Region survive by a single point. Women’s Football League Division One.

In the Essex Senior League, Great Wakering Rovers pipped Basildon United to the title as both clubs earned promotion back to the Isthmian League. Burnham Ramblers were one of two sides demoted to the new Step 6 Eastern Senior League. In the Thurlow Nunn Eastern Counties League Premier Division, Coggeshall Town won promotion by amassing 115 points, but Wivenhoe Town headed down to Step 6.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 21 Coaches

Now two seasons in, the updated FA Coach Education Pathway has continued Learners Attending Courses July 2017 to June 2018 to gather momentum and popularity amongst learners nationwide. Learners The consistent messages being shared across various disciplines have been well-received FA Level 1 in Coaching Football 768 by our extensive volunteer workforce, who commit their valuable time to supporting players of all ages and abilities across Essex. FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (Block 1): How We Coach 135 FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (Block 2): How We Support & The Future Player 109 Throughout the 2017/18 season, we once again reviewed the way in which courses were FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (Block 3): How We Play 51 delivered to allow flexibility for learners and to meet the ever-growing demand in volume. FA Level 3 (UEFA ‘B’) in Coaching Football (New for 2017/18 season) 24 Feedback was positive from learners, with particular emphasis upon course content, delivery and organisation. FA Level 1 in Coaching Futsal 175 FA Level 2 in Coaching Futsal (New for 2017/18 season) 22 This season saw two new courses added to our programme - the FA Level 3 (UEFA ‘B’) FA Level 1 in Coaching Goalkeepers 18 and the FA Level 2 in Coaching Futsal. Following an application process, 24 learners FA Level 2 in Coaching Goalkeepers 11 were shortlisted to be part of the Level 3 course, held at Aveley FC’s new facility. FA Level 1 Introduction to First Aid in Football (IFAiF) 660 The course ran in-line with the football season and learners were required to complete a FA Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAIF) 24 season-long project alongside nine study days, split into four blocks of learning. Each coach FA Safeguarding Children Workshop 526 also benefitted from three ‘in-situ’ visits from their course tutor, providing specific feedback FA Mentoring Adults 24 and support. A register of interest will be open each season for those interested in applying. Total 2,547 The Futsal Level 2 course saw 23 learners attending two blocks of learning at the Thomas Lord Audley School in Colchester. Coaches were introduced to further detail relating to ‘In Possession’, ‘Out of Possession’ and ‘Transition’ within this exciting format of the game.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 22 Coaching Workshops and Resources Mentors were linked to Group Areas, allowing a more joined-up approach with Football Development Officers and creating stronger local relationships. We have also introduced We continue to signpost coaches towards the FA Licensed Coaches’ Club (FALCC). ‘project leads’ allocated to specific areas of the game such as women and girls, inclusion This gives coaches access to a variety of free resources and guidance to support and post-course support. their coaching journey. Coach Education Feedback There are also a variety of free valuable resources which coaches can access to extend the learning and support their coaching journey: “It was a great experience; not only watching Pete, but also my boys being put through their paces. I must admit that night has been one of the proudest of my life as the feedback • FA Coaching Community - Hive Learning: www.hivelearning.com/thefa from the other coaches there about the boys has been amazing! I am still getting E-Mails • England DNA Foundation Phase Resource (found within the above) about it today! Pete also shook my hand and said I had given the boys a great start.” • Online Continuing Professional Development (CPD)/Masterclass Sessions: www.learning.thefa.com Mark Gordon (FC Redwing Under 9s Team supporting the Pete Sturgess event)

As well as a series of FALCC events run throughout the season, we also offer workshops for “I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and hope it helped in raising the profile of the new coaches entering the game. These workshops are delivered with the support of our great work being done in the Foundation Phase. Keep the momentum going youth leagues and Football Development Officers across the county and offer coaching on social media and please spread the word via your workforce. Thanks for such insight, support and guidance. great support on the evening.”

The 2017/18 season saw a series of ‘showcase’ coaching events held across Essex, aimed Pete Sturgess (FA Technical Lead 5-12) at engaging and supporting a wider audience. They linked closely to the ‘England DNA’ and the ethos being promoted throughout the new coaching pathway. “The tutor’s enthusiasm on the course and knowledge made it thoroughly enjoyable and I learnt a huge amount, for which I am really grateful. I certainly believe it will help me to Guests included Pete Sturgess (FA Technical Lead - Foundation Phase), Ian Bateman be a better coach and, more importantly, encourage the boys and retain their interest in (FA Youth Coach Educator - Futsal) and Ben Bartlett (Senior Youth Coach Educator). playing football for the long term. As with the other guys, one of my biggest challenges during the last couple of years has been issues regarding the parents. Certainly the ideas FA Coach Mentor Programme on Sunday have helped me formulate a strategy for next season which will make it more enjoyable for me and allow more time to coach the children.” Now in its sixth season, the programme continues to support a wide range of coaches and clubs across Essex and complements the more formal support and FA Level 1 Learner education offered via our formal qualifications. There are twelve mentors operating across the county. “I would like to thank you for your support, encouragement, patience and professionalism. It’s been a real pleasure spending Feedback from both coaches and clubs has been very positive, and lasting relationships time on the course and an experience I have thoroughly enjoyed.” have been built between individuals and their mentors. The 2017/18 season saw a number of changes which allowed greater flexibility in terms of how mentors supported across FA Level 2 Learner the county.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 23 “I really enjoyed last night! It was the first one I'd attended, but I will definitely “The FA Level 1 Course has not only helped me become a better football coach, it’s helped be coming to more in the future. Please pass on my thanks to all the team and, me become a better all-round teacher and leader. The tutors were friendly and engaging of course, Danielle and Steve too. An insightful evening!” and I was inspired by the focus on positive encouragement, helping players think and learn for themselves and game-based exercises.” Female Coaching Network Event with the Girls Regional Talent Club FA Level 1 Learner “The course was excellent and I’m using the learning in every session. The tutor helped me to become a better coach and has helped me to step back a bit more. It made me “Thank you for arranging and hosting last night. It was a fantastic event and, from the realise just how important the role of coach is to kids' lives. I’ve included ideas from the attendance, this was clearly evident. I believe CPDs help to re-ground you and remind you course and increased team and individual challenges within my philosophy of development of why you do things and continue to instil those best practices. It's also great to catch-up in a safe environment and not trying to win the World Cup with the Under 10s!” with those other coaches you meet on the courses and see how they are all getting on.”

FA Level 1 Learner Senior Cup Final CPD Attendee

“The course was better than expected. The tutor was very knowledgeable and informative “I’ve been surprised how much focus there is on educational theories and how we learn on every part of Futsal, which has made me more confident in coaching the game. I used on the different FA courses I’ve been on. The session on behaviour would also be very some of the Futsal content within the first week of coaching following the course, and beneficial to those who don’t have experience or training which, for example, a teacher have also booked a court to enable coaching for the girls’ section at the club.” might have. I have found the whole process really good and wish I’d done my badges when I was a lot younger. On the whole, it was a really good experience. Thank you for your Futsal Level 1 Learner efforts… I learnt a lot!”

“Just a quick message to say a special thank you for your continuous support! FA Level 2 Learner It’s been great working with you all and I hope we can partner-up again soon.”

Yashmin Harun (Chair and Founder of Muslimah Sports Association)

Pete Sturgess Coaching Event

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 24 Adult

The landscape of adult football participation has continued in its trend, with • Adult 11v11 Coaches CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Workshop was held the decline in the adult 11v11 game showing a 75-team decrease this season. at Beauchamps School in Wickford discussing matchday analysis. The event focused Many factors have been acknowledged to play a part in this, including social on delivering adult coaching support and differing match analysis techniques for to economic elements. coaches to utilise within the adult game

Over the past year we have initiated discussions to create a large-scale review of adult Adult Male 11v11 (Under 19s to Open-Age, including Veterans) football leagues before organising league meetings in each Group Area to outline the current trends of data analysis amongst each league. Group 1 230 297 Each adult league review has targeted the understanding of club affiliation, member Group 2 clubs, projected forecast trends, finance, fines and tariffs, discipline, referee coverage Group 3 335 and marketing, resulting in a compiled ‘SWOT’ analysis and recommendations. Group 4 240 Total 1,102 League recommendations are a product of the overall analysis and review - with bespoke targets which are currently in-line with the Essex County FA ‘Moving Forward’ Strategy for Saturday and Sunday Adult Team Coverage 2018-21 which will be implemented in partnership with each league over the course (Under 19s to Open-Age Football excluding Veterans) of the 2018/19 season and beyond. Sunday Veterans Cup Final

Alongside this, additional funding has been allocated to reward sustainable adult clubs with two or more teams through the Football Foundation’s ‘Retain the Game’ funding scheme. Moreover, each grant constituted £750 being provided across two seasons to aid facility, equipment or course costs.

In addition, the Essex County FA have hosted an 11v11 matchday analysis coaching workshop to aid adult coaches within grassroots football.

Alongside this, over the past year, we have attempted to work closer with youth and adult leagues to support the transition of teams and players into adult football. The Essex County Sunday Junior Cup Final FA have initiated a 9v9 ‘Flexible Football’ offer whereby fortnightly fixtures will be catering for both under 16-21s and open-age players to participate, with a view to signposting these players into adult football. Saturday Football - 369 teams (43.06%) • £22,500 invested into 31 adult male clubs through the Retain the Game funding Sunday Football - 488 teams (56.94%) targeting sustained adult clubs with two or more male teams

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 25 Clubs

The FA Charter Standard Youth percentage increased from 81.72% to 82.61%, The Charter Standard Club criteria remain, and there have been no changes for the season. with the Charter Standard Adult percentage increasing from 29.54% to 30.75%. All coach education qualifications and the Annual Health Check now fall in-line with one Some clubs who joined the accreditation scheme were Frenford Youth, another and Charter Standard clubs were still eligible for a bursary to reduce the price of Oyster and Tiptree Heath Youth. coaching courses.

One big change clubs noticed during the season with the Charter Standard Awards was One change which has been seen positively by volunteers is the removal of the the end of the McDonald’s Kit Scheme, for which they were previously eligible upon requirements for Level 1 and 2 coaches to complete CPD hours to gain their licence for completion of the Annual Health Check process. the following season. Coaches who are Level 3 (UEFA ‘B’) and beyond, however, are still required to complete CPD hours to regain their FA Licenced Coaches Club status. Clubs, however, still continued to ensure they were adhering to the criteria and that all teams within the club had an FA Level 1 Coach associated to them, ensuring our children Charter Standard League numbers increased this season, with the Essex Senior League were in a safe, fun and inclusive environment while learning the game. being the second adult league to gain the status. The other leagues with Charter Standard continued to put the accreditation at the forefront of their work and drive the core The demand from clubs for specific Annual Health Check Workshops reduced over the elements of the programme into the grassroots environment here in Essex. course of the season, which was seen positively that The FA’s online Whole Game System was a user-friendly administrative tool and that volunteers were becoming more familiar The Charter Standard Newsletter came to a stop for two reasons. Firstly, the FA with the process. reintroduced their own newsletter which duplicated content. Secondly, the Press & Publicity internal strategy looked at streamlining all information customers receive The early part of the 2017/18 season saw collaborative work with our County Sports into one central information point. Partnership, Active Essex, to support clubs with the following topics: Two Community Football Day events were organised, as opposed to the usual one, • Funding to ensure the whole of Essex had the opportunity to be involved. Over 1,300 players • Easyfundraising enjoyed the events during July, with £950 also raised for the Bobby Moore Fund • Annual Health Check for Cancer Research UK. • Disability Awareness • Club Player Council One took place at the Forest Row Centre in Collier Row, Romford, with another at Plume High School in Maldon. This year the focus of the occasion was changed for 5-11-year-olds The workshops were slight, with joint working between Groups 1 and 2 (held at Braintree to incorporate specific elements which supported their development. Town FC) and Groups 3 and 4 (at May & Baker Eastbrook Community FC). From the two events, 18 Charter Standard clubs attended, which further heightened their knowledge to support the growth and sustainability of their clubs.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 26 Community Football Days Community Football Days

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 27 Women and Girls

SSE Wildcats Bi-monthly girls’ football festivals took place at 23 sites across the county. We worked closely with our partners within education, club football and leagues and delivered 23 Essex can now boast 33 SSE Wildcats Centres. There are 28 new centres and five bi-monthly festivals. Year 1 centres retained from the previous year. Credit must go to each programme for delivering a quality product for girls aged 5-11 for 16 weeks. FA Girls’ Football Week in April was, once again, a massive success and launched many brand new SSE Wildcats Centres. In addition, our Silent Soccer Festival (in partnership with The affiliation figures for girls’ mini-soccer have seen a 38% increase for the 2017/18 the Essex County Girls’ League) was really well attended, with three age groups getting season. Numbers have grown from 34 to 54 teams and many of those teams have come involved: Under 8s, 9s and 10s. from a club running an SSE Wildcats centre. We have seen particular growth in the Under 7s and 8s age groups.

FC Buckhurst Hill Girls FC C & K Basildon Girls

England Under 16s Girls Camp Call-Ups Frontiers Girls FC

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 28 Player Development Centre Regional Talent Club

The Essex County FA Girls’ Player Development Centre (PDC) was led by She Essex’s Regional Talent Club (RTC) remains as a Tier 2 Licence of the Elite Can Play this season, and it demonstrated great partnership work. The PDC Female Player Pathway. RTC centres nationally still remain at 34 clubs, trials took place at Noak Hill in Romford and attracted 195 girls across four across three tiers. age groups: Under 10, 12s, 14s and 16s. The programme will be in its fifth year at the start of the 2017/18 season and, prior to The Girls’ PDC is now in its eighth season. The technical programme runs sessions the start of the season, the trials saw 153 females attending. During the course of the once a week over 20 weeks at Noak Hill. The programme attracts nearly 200 girls who season, we welcomed back Kevin Baker to the coaching team and said farewell to Kelly attend the trial process, with 80 players being successful in obtaining a place. Walker and Ian Bent.

Our female coaching network grew, with Susan Dorrell, Paige Wakefield and Georgia Maxwell-Jones all supporting the development and heightening their development within the game.

Throughout the season the centre had England Under 16s call-ups for Blue Wilson, Eloise King, Paige Peake and Maria Boswell, with two players from our Under 14s, Maddie Biggs and Sara Smith Walter, being called-up for England Under 15s camps and tournaments.

Under 10s (Andy Gibbons [Head Coach] and Georgia Maxwell-Jones [Assistant Coach]): Maddie Dennis, Violet Gray, Demi Hetherington, Olivia Fenemer, Joy Hughes, Omotara Junaid, Darcy Marks, Alicia Russell, Daisy Warren, Annabelle Webb.

Under 12s (Simon King [Head Coach] and Paige Wakefield [Assistant Coach]): Darcy Drewitt, Tatiana Flores, Lucy Lyon, Megan McAniskey, Katie McClean, Grace McEwen, Kelsey Morgan, Ellie Moore, Amy Taylor, Erin Williams, Libby Cooper, Jasmine Deacon.

Under 14s (Kevin Baker [Head Coach] and Daniel Parker [Assistant Coach]): Rebecca Alderton, Brogan Cavener, Mia Filipiak, Sophie Farrow, Alicia Garwood, Freya Godfrey, Keanne Jervier, Andie Boo Mills, Cloe O'Brien, Ruby Sealey, Ella Skidmore, Sara Smith Walter , Millie Stacey, Leonie Telford, Learna Daniels, Emily Howe.

Under 16s (Joe Sheehan [Head Coach] and Nikita Runnacles and Adam Firman [Assistant Coach]): Maddie Biggs, Olivia Bilson, Maria Boswell, Lucy Egan, Girls' Regional Talent Club Women's Cup Final Springfield Girls FC Silvana Flores, Abbie Jackson, Eloise King, Ellie Mitchell, Paige Peake, Rosie Richards, Sophie Peskett, Emma Wallis, Blue Wilson, Claudia Zahui, Hope Smith.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 29 Essex County Schools FA Representative Football

The Essex County Schools’ Under 16s Girls Squad made it to the English Schools FA’s National Final, which took place at Stoke City FC. Despite a physically-impressive performance, the girls missed out, losing to a strong Lancashire side, 1-0.

Fortunately, the girls were able to play within the South-East England Schools Football Association (SEESFA) Competition Under 16s Final and they came away as winners, beating Surrey convincingly to win the competition for a record eleventh time.

The Under 14s Girls were also successful in reaching the final of their SEESFA competition, facing Sussex. However, they lost out after a nail-biting extra time period and penalties at Aveley FC’s impressive Parkside Stadium.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 30 Disability

Disability football continues to grow within Essex, with 60 teams affiliated around A new wellbeing session has also launched in Colchester with Futures in Mind, the county. The Soccability League also continues grow, with five adult and two Disability4Sport and North-East Mind. Mapping has been developed of all our disability youth divisions. sessions, which is now accessible on the County FA website.

Currently there are 60 sides affiliated to the County FA. 30 of these participate in our We additionally hosted the FA Disability People’s Cup. 26 sides entered the competition countywide competition. The latest Soccability League has become independent, on 24th February 2018 at PlayFootball Southend. There were four categories: Premiership, and now takes place at PlayFootball in Colchester, with adults and youths both playing Championship, League 1 and Youth Under 16s. Basildon Soccability successfully qualified on the same day. for the National Finals, but lost on penalties. Westcliff United went on to win the Premiership category. The youth festivals have six teams in each age category (Under 12s to 16s). Five teams are Essex-affiliated and one is a Hertfordshire team. The Youth Forum are looking at moving Talent Identification Day was delivered in March, which progressed onto a Talent Hub the Youth League to two venues at PlayFootball Colchester and Southend. delivered by Disability4Sport. The hub has been very successful, with a number of players attending. Two young girls who play within mainstream football have now progressed The Adult League has 18 teams across four divisions (Premiership, Championship, League to the regional emerging programme. 1 and League 2). Members of the Essex Soccability League entered the 11v11 Regional Disability Cup, where Healthy4Life reached the semi-finals. A Refereeing Disability “Thank you for the [Soccability] event today. The students really enjoyed having the Workshop was also delivered to equip referees with the knowledge of refereeing chance to play at a different school and with different teams. I will be entering the school in the disability game. into the college events. With the buzz around the event today, I was able to recruit two girls in our Year 10 group to come to the next under 16s event.” With safeguarding processes impacting on school affiliations, we no longer affiliate our Schools Soccability Festivals. Therefore, our disability affiliation numbers have decreased, Simon Best, Lancaster School although we are continuing to deliver the Schools Festival in a revised format of four festivals per Group Area.

We have piloted a partnership with one of the Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools and a local FA Charter Standard club to increase the youth participation within disability and allow the club to cater for the wider community. The club has taken on all administrative duties, including applying for Football Foundation ‘Grow the Game’ funding, while the school is responsible for practical elements.

The county now offers a wide range of disability opportunities through a club network. Football opportunities are available for PAN Disability, Cerebral Palsy, visually impaired, hearing impaired and frame football. FA People’s Cup FA People’s Cup Soccability Festival

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 31 FA People’s Cup Soccability Festival

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 32 Football Futures and Youth Forum

The 2017/18 season saw the Essex County FA Youth Forum continue to evolve, with Ciaran Whatley of Hawkwell Athletic FC becoming Chairperson.

Ciaran represented the Essex County FA at the FA’s National Leadership Academy in July 2017 and then implemented a number of ideas within the Youth Forum. Gemma Stubbles was then selected as the Youth Forum representative to attend the 2018 camp.

The Football Futures Programme, which is overseen by The FA, was under review. Our Youth Forum assessed our current programme and used insight from existing members across the county to shape it for the season. The Youth Forum delivered some key football development projects during 2017/18.

The group continued to coordinate and deliver the current Football Futures Programme model of signing-up and logging hours online as well as spending time planning and supporting County FA events such as the Grassroots Football Festival, Futsal tournaments and Wildcats sessions. Football Futures had 47 members who had logged 1,265 volunteering hours.

Ciaran Whatley

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 33 Football Development Strategy To provide a safe, engaging and progressive football environment for all

In 2017/18...

DELIVERED FEMALE DEVELOPED 2,547 600+ REGIONAL TALENT 39 LEARNERS ACROSS COACHES THROUGH CLUB AND PLAYER 7 ENGLAND 3G PITCHES ON ALL COACH CPD (CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT FEMALE YOUTH THE FA REGISTER EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONALS IN ESSEX COURSES DEVELOPMENT) WORKSHOPS PLAYERS134

SECURED 14 57 £11,000+ FA PITCH TEAMS ENGAGED IN PROVIDED BY ESSEX COUNTY FA £97,500 IMPROVEMENT TWO COMMUNITY TO GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL OF FOOTBALL PROGRAMME DAY EVENTS THROUGH SMALL GRANTS SCHEME FOUNDATION ‘GROW VISITS TO THE GAME’ 50 PITCHES FUNDING INTO ESSEX

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 34 Recreational

In 2017/18, the Essex County FA implemented The FA’s Recreational Strategy Walking Football Centres to deliver a wide range of football opportunities across the county. These ranged from Walking Football sessions to Just Play centres running countywide, in partnership with Mars Just Play.

Throughout the season there were 19 Walking Football Centres and 13 Just Play Centres, 32 in total. In addition, the Walking Football Centres have aided the development of the Essex Walking Football League (EWFL).

As part of our partnership with the EWFL, we have looked to further develop participation by signposting players from the centres into competitive matches across three divisions: Over 50s, Over 60s and Over 65s. This highlights the development of the league, moving from two to three divisions within a season, from 22 to 29 teams.

Just Play Centres Group 1 - 5 Group 2 - 3 Group 3 - 6 Group 4 - 5

Group 1 - 6 Essex Alliance League Group 2 - 1 Group 3 - 1 Group 4 - 5 County Motor Works Vauxhall Mid Essex League

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 35 Small-Sided

Small-sided football has remained steady in the 2017/18 season, with a number of commercial providers operating across the county and new 3G pitches hosting leagues during off-peak periods.

Work has continued to make sure all our small-sided football providers are affiliating their competitions, and our Referee Development Officers have ensured registered referees are aware of unaffiliated providers and the consequences of officiating in their leagues.

FA People’s Cup

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 36 Youth Leagues

Partnerships with youth leagues have developed and grown throughout the 2017/18 season. Six of our youth leagues in Essex have FA Charter Standard status, Total Number of Teams across Essex Blackwater & Dengie Youth which means they’re committed to continuing to raise the standards of football (Sunday Youth Football) League - 404 for young people across the county. Chelmsford Youth League - 315 The youth leagues within Essex facilitate nearly 40,000 participants, and we’ve seen Brentwood Community growth within five of our age groups: Under 10s, 11s, 13s, 16s and 17s. Alliance Youth League - 232 Colchester & District Youth Moving into the 2018/19 season, we will see the introduction of the Junior Premier League, League - 353 following on from a consultation period throughout 2017/18. We will also be meeting with all our youth leagues to present our league participation reports which have been worked Echo Junior League - 711 on during the past year, providing statistical insight and analysis. South-East Essex Primary Mini Soccer League As we enter into the 2018/19 season, we will be holding a Youth League Forum for our Southend & District Junior leagues to share best practice, feedback and ideas. With the landscape of youth football League - 356 continuing to change, innovative ideas and formats will be explored as we continue Thundermite Youth to see it develop. League - 85 West Essex & East Herts Youth League - 30 Essex County Girls' League - 143

Andrews Under 14s Cup Final Rosser Under 15s Cup Final Under 14s Girls Cup Final Under 12s Cup Final Under 18s Girls Cup Final

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 37 Futsal

The 2017/18 season saw our three affiliated clubs - London City Futsal, County Futsal Winners Braintree Futsal and Newham Sports - remain within the National League structure. London competed in the National Super League, with Braintree and Newham Our County Futsal Competition for Under 10s through to 16s was open to schools and participating in the Division 2 South League. grassroots clubs this year. Each Group Area held specific qualification rounds before progressing to our finals held at the Copper Box in East London and the University The season identified a slight reduction in affiliated Futsal clubs, from 20 to 17. Out of the of Essex’s new sports arena in Colchester. 17 teams affiliated, ten were identified as open-age teams, with the remainder focusing on youth. Within those 17, four were identified as female-specific. Females Males Springfield Girls Great Danes Educational teams were also included with the University of Essex, Anglia Ruskin Under 10s (Clubs) University and Writtle University College, offering Futsal as either a part of their educational Under 12s (Clubs) Colchester Town Girls Great Danes programme or part of their sports participation programme. Despite a slight reduction, Under 14s (Schools) Eastwood Academy Beauchamps School the internal drive from clubs to deliver Futsal as a development tool and/or winter Under 16s (Schools) Notley High School Notley High School training option is ever-evolving.

The Southend & District Junior League continued to offer Futsal opportunities as an alternative to football during the month of January for the Under 11s age group. Age Group Number of Clubs or Schools Number of Clubs or The Brentwood Community Football Alliance offered bespoke Futsal coaches to upskill Worked With (Boys) Schools Worked With their grassroots coaches and managers as well as providing matchday opportunities (Girls) for teams from Under 7s through to Under 10s. Under 10s 22 4 Under 12s 31 4 There were rights for County FAs to run the Futsal Level 2 coaching qualification, Under 14s 34 32 with 23 learners attending our first course and a further 175 obtaining their Futsal Level 1 course over the season. Under 16s 32 18 Total 119* 58*

* collective and not exclusive of the same school/club entering the different age categories

Average number of players the competitions affected (based on average of ten players - approximately taken from the FA National Game Strategy: 1,770

The FA have been working behind the scenes during the season to devise a Futsal strategy which will sit alongside the new FA National Game Strategy. This will look to be released and implemented into the county strategies for the 2018/19 season.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 38 Facilities and Funding

During 2017/18, The FA commissioned sports consultants Kavanagh, Knight & Football Stadia Improvement Fund Page (KKP) to produce Local Football Facility Plans (LFFP) for every local authority (LA) in England by 2020. Essex was selected in the first tranche of the roll-out Over the course of the 2017/18 season, three Essex senior status clubs received following the completion of pilot plans in Birmingham. funding through the Football Stadia Improvement Fund.

Our County Development Manager and Football Foundation Engagement Manager This fund is there to support clubs playing within the FA National League System began the process alongside KKP in March 2018. A series of meetings were held with LAs to meet their ground grading requirements. The table below outlines the clubs who across the county to establish the needs of grassroots football across four investment received investment: pillars: 3G Pitch Provision, Changing Rooms/Pavilions, Grass Pitch Improvement and Small-Sided Football. Applicant Foundation Funded Total Project Cost £93,242 £144,403 The plans are likely to be finalised in the 2018/19 season and will act as an investment portfolio Holland FC for each LA, reflecting the National Football Facilities Strategy requirement to develop White Ensign FC £3,000 £4,350 a sustainable network of quality facilities to drive participation across all parts of the game. Brightlingsea Regent FC £14,013 £28,359 Total £110,255 £177,112 Alongside the LFFP process, work continued to support LAs through their individual Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) assessments. These are important strategic documents aiming to FA 3G Pitch Register identify the future needs for football facilities within each LA by assessing the qualitative and quantitative impact of their football pitches. There has been a growth in the number of 3G pitches listed within Essex on the FA 3G Pitch Register during the 2017/18 season. It requires that all 3G Football Turf They assess current participation rates, future population and housing growth, as well Pitches used for affiliated match play should meet the standards set in The FA 3G as future team generation rates. This process also includes assessments on the current Pitch Performance Test. and future need of 3G Artificial Grass Pitches for training and match play purposes. This ensures there is a high-quality standard across all 3G pitches. There are now 39 pitches Each PPS carries out a consultation process with grassroots clubs and leagues to ensure (of varying sizes) within Essex listed on the register (up from 30 during 2015). This has feedback is received from key football stakeholders. During 2017/18, the County FA ensured that football matches continue to get played in adverse weather conditions. supported PPSs for Brentwood, South Essex (Basildon, Castle Point, Rochford and Southend) and Epping Forest.

Alongside the PPSs, facility development work continued to progress. Whilst the 2017/18 season was very much a campaign of transition and strategic planning, a number of projects were under development during the season, with three submitted for review for the first Football Foundation panel meeting of 2018/19.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 39 Protection of Football Facilities FA ‘Parklife’ Programme

Protection of existing football facilities is a key priority for football. Housing growth The London Borough of Barking & Dagenham (LBBD) submitted an Expression of is playing a significant factor in the development of future facilities. Interest to be involved in hosting an FA ‘Parklife’ Hub. They were successful in this stage, and work has begun to develop this project at Parsloes Park. Disused football facilities can be at risk of being lost or reallocated for other purposes as part of LA Local Plans to identify key sites for housing growth, with submission to the The current plan for the site is to develop three 3G pitches (one of which will be a stadia Government for approval. PPSs are an important assessment tool in the process. development) and an eight-team changing ancillary build, which will also include a gym and a studio. The project has currently secured the following funding pots: A lot of time and effort is invested into protecting football sites, and we work closely with Sport England to comment on, and provide evidence in regard to, any sites which could be Organisation Total lost to football to ensure they are not lost or to ensure replacement facilities are developed £600,000 to offset any potential loss of pitch stock. LBBD LBBD (Community Infrastructure Levy Funding) £400,000 FA Pitch Improvement Programme London Marathon Charitable Trust £500,000

Pitch maintenance continued to be a challenge to the development of the Funding is still to be confirmed from the LBBD Section 106 pot for funding of £350,000. grassroots game in the 2017/18 season. Local authorities are under increasing A funding application to the Football Foundation is to be submitted at the end of July for budget pressures and constraints, which is beginning to filter into the quality £5,023,000, with a decision expected in December 2018. of pitches at the grassroots level. The next stage for the programme is to achieve planning permission, with a pre-planning Subsidies are being cut and pitch maintenance programmes are being reduced meeting with the Greater London Authority scheduled for August 2018 and a submission to in cost-cutting measures, impacting on the price of pitches, as well as their quality. the Local Authority planning committee in late 2018. The FA Pitch Improvement Programme (PIP) has had a positive affect within Essex. Essex County FA Small Grants Scheme The programme is a partnership with the Institute of Groundsmanship to provide specific advice and guidance to football clubs on pitch maintenance and improvement. The Small Grants Scheme was launched in January 2016. It is designed to provide The Regional Pitch Advisor visited 14 new sites (50 new pitches), producing a detailed funding support to organisations who are having difficulty securing funding report for the operator. for capital projects.

More than £11,000 was reinvested back into grassroots football during the 2017/18 season, as set out below:

Stanway Villa FC - Defibrillator Rayleigh Youth FC - Changing Room Improvements Boxted Lodgers FC - Line-Marking Machine Great Wakering Rovers FC - Clubhouse Improvements Southend Manor FC - Pavilion Improvements Nazeing Youth FC - Portable Floodlights Ilford FC - Lawnmower Witham Town FC - Respect Fencing Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 40 Football Foundation ‘Grow the Game’ Funding Group Area Year 1 Year 2 (four Mini-Soccer/Youth Female Mini-Soccer/Youth Female We identified, and supported, the allocation of funding through the Football Clubs in Group 1 applied, including three FA = 5; Disability Male & = 1; Disability Male & Foundation’s ‘Grow the Game’ Scheme, which provides money towards new Charter Standard) Female Youth = 2 Female Youth = 1 football activity, with funding being used towards kit, equipment, facility hire, coaching qualifications and affiliation fees. Clubs in Group 2 (seven Mini-Soccer/Youth Female Mini-Soccer/Youth Female applied, including seven FA = 7; Disability Male & = 6; Disability Male & The Football Foundation (FF) changed their criteria for 2018, with a greater emphasis Charter Standard) Female Youth = 2 Female Youth = 2 on the direct support of the creation of new women’s, girls’ and disability teams. Clubs in Group 3 (nine Mini-Soccer/Youth Female Mini-Soccer/Youth Female applied, including nine FA = 10; Adult Female = 1; = 8; Adult Female = 1; FF criteria in previous years also looked to aid the creation of new adult male teams. Charter Standard) Disability Male & Female Disability Male & Female However, a new funding stream called ‘Retain the Game’ now has a greater emphasis Youth = 1; Disability Male & Youth = 2; Disability Male & on supporting existing teams, rather than the creation of teams. Female Adult = 1 Female Adult = 1 Clubs in Group 4 (five Mini-Soccer/Youth Female Mini-Soccer/Youth Female A £1,500 grant per new team was awarded to each of the following clubs during 2018. applied, including no FA = 3; Adult Female = 1; = 4; Disability Male & This secured a total investment into Essex of £172,500 for the development of new Charter Standard) Disability Male & Female Female Youth = 3 teams and participation. Youth = 2; Disability Male & Female Adult = 1 Total Teams Mini-Soccer/Youth Female Mini-Soccer/Youth Female = 25; Adult Female = 2; = 19; Adult Female = 1; Disability Male & Female Disability Male & Female Youth = 7; Disability Male & Youth = 8; Disability Male & Female Adult = 2 Female Adult = 1 Total Funding £54,000 £43,500 £97,500

Brightlingsea Regent FC

Hawkwell Athletic FC Little Oakley FC

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 41 Stanway Villa YFC

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 42 Education

Association of Colleges Sport Funding: English Colleges FA College Football Hubs University of Essex

There are three tiers to this model: The University of Essex (UoE) continued to grow their partnership with The FA, through the investment into higher education Tier 2 status, and Tier One: to deliver across all four English Colleges FA (ECFA) pillars. Engaging 250 players the Essex County FA. in the college and local community through 30 leaders (including two football activators and an apprentice) The strengthened partnership has resulted in a number of new community engagement projects being developed. Girls’ football has been at the forefront of the success, with the Tier Two: to deliver across three ECFA pillars. Engaging 125 players in the college university applying to run an SSE Wildcats Centre, which operates on Saturday mornings, and local community through ten leaders (including two football activators) staffed by FA-qualified students based on campus.

Tier Three: to deliver across two ECFA pillars. Engaging 50 players through a male The Essex County FA hosted a Community Wildcats Futsal Festival, with over 30 girls and female football activator attending, and a school year three and four event where six schools and 80 girls took part, in partnership with the FA Lidl Skills Programme. All college football hubs will be expected to engage 20% female, 10% disability and 10% Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) participants. The ECFA pillars are: Participation, With the opening of a new state-of-the-art sports arena, the Essex County FA have found Competition, Workforce, Community. Colleges funded include: Palmer’s College (Tier 3), a fantastic hub site for Futsal at the UoE, with our Under 10s and 12s Futsal Club Qualifiers South Essex College (Tier 3), Seevic College (Tier 2), Chelmsford College (Tier 3), held there in February and the County Girls Qualifier being successfully hosted at the Colchester Sixth Form College (Tier 2). centre too.

Colleges Disability League The first FA Level 1 Course was delivered, with twelve students on the Sports Coaching & Performance Degree, plus an FA Primary Teachers Award. This event now engages over 100 participants and has strong links with clubs for each of the colleges. Students signed-up to the Football Futures Programme Positive developments and plans were are used as volunteers for the event. submitted with the intention to move the UoE to a Tier 1 hub for the 2018/19 season, and also The Colleges League is in its third year of running in partnership with the London FA to broker a three-way partnership with the and is coordinated by the Group 4 Football Development Officer. The league is run British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS), from Goals Dagenham across five events a year. the County FA and the University of Essex to fund a full-time football development officer. This season the Colleges League has supported: Barking & Dagenham, Seevic College, Newvic College, Chelmsford College, Havering College, South Essex College, Colchester Institute, Redbridge College, Tower Hamlets, Hackney College, Waltham Forest, St Charles, Westking and Newham College. Education (Football Futures)

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 43 Equality and Inclusion

We continue to promote equality and inclusion throughout the organisation and the wider workforce.

We’ve promoted a number of religious occasions and international days through our social media accounts.

We built relationships with a number of partners. With the Muslimah Sports Association and London Sport, we delivered an inclusive FA Level 1 Course which was delivered in July 2017 at Al-Madina Mosque in Barking.

The course was tailored to Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) females, ensuring they could successfully complete a course without compromising their cultural beliefs or values. The venue met their needs too, being enclosed, and a female tutor was sourced. The course was open to all females and all 15 successfully gained their coaching qualification.

October saw the re-launch of our Inclusion Advisory Group (IAG). A chair was sourced to ensure they possessed the skill sets required for this group and a number of members were approached to join who had the knowledge and understanding of the needs and barriers of the community. Little Oakley Walking Football

The IAG has taken a different approach to the previous version, with a Group Area-specific focus, to ensure it has an impact on the wider community.

The decision was also taken to monitor our course participants to ensure we are reflective of our community and to gain an understanding of our demographics. Below is the course data for coaches and referees:

BAME Female Disability Total Coaches 129 43 15 945 Referees 22 23 3 406 Inclusive Level 1 Course

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 44 Safeguarding and Welfare

2017/18 saw The FA introduce Safeguarding Operating Standards for all County FAs. The standard contains many elements in relation to safeguarding and requires the Essex County FA to evidence how these elements are met and measured.

As part of the standard, we conducted safeguarding visits to clubs, which gave us the opportunity to meet club officials, coaches and volunteers. It also enabled us to reassure parents and carers that the appropriate individuals were involved with their children and young people. In January 2018, we were assessed by an independent company who shared the following comments:

“In the opinion of the assessors, the Essex County FA has fully and systematically embedded safeguarding within its governance structures and operational practices. Therefore, we are able to categorise them as Green (pass). The drive and enthusiasm shown by the CEO, DSO [Designated Safeguarding Officer] and staff will help ensure Essex CFA is a safer place for children to play football.”

A Safeguarding Training Workshop was held as part of our Senior Cup Final at Colchester United FC. The presentation was conducted by E-Safety Training on the risks associated with children and young people using social media. This was, again, very well-received by the delegates and we are looking to provide a further training session in March 2019.

The department now works towards delivering a strategy supporting the valued workforce of Welfare Officers, making sure all safeguarding compliances are met, conducting and supervising investigations and developing a positive environment.

New incentives and approaches are in the process of being developed in preparation for the 2018/19 season, which will include a new approach for fair play. Educational workshops, and the opportunity for clubs to request a parental matchday experience workshop, will also be made available.

A major aspect of the department is to manage both poor practice and abuse cases. During the 2017/18 season, the caseloads on the right were held and investigated.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 45 Safeguarding & Welfare Strategy Provide a safe and compliant football environment with a skilled and knowledgeable workforce

In 2017/18...

OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, 634 120 STRONG WORKING RELATIONSHIPS PLACES ON PLACES ON HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED WITH SAFEGUARDING WELFARE OTHER AGENCIES OPERATING CHILDREN OFFICER WITHIN SAFEGUARDING COURSES WORKSHOPS AND CHILD PROTECTION

SAFEGUARDING ESSEX POLICE: “THROUGH THE VISITS COMPLETED SHARING OF INFORMATION BETWEEN WITH THE POLICE AND THE ESSEX COUNTY FA, WE WERE ABLE TO BUILD EVIDENCE THAT REALLY HIGHLIGHTS THE SUCCESS OF MULTI-AGENCY WORKING.” TEAMS48

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 46 FA Lidl Skills

During the 2017/2018 season, Essex’s FA Lidl Skills Team changed dramatically. After five years of delivery of the programme in Essex, our Skills Team Leader, Lauren Phillips, progressed into an FA coaching role within the elite female development pathway.

Lauren’s replacement, Ian Varley, continued to lead the programme up until the end of the season. Overall, the programme has been a great success here in Essex, as well as nationally, with eleven million coaching opportunities for children aged 5-11 provided as well as the development of thousands of school teachers in primary schools.

The philosophy and approach has gone on to influence our coach education courses, the development of the England DNA and many more programmes across The FA. However, the programme has since come to an end.

We would like to extend our thanks to those who delivered the programme here in Essex. Primary schools and grassroots clubs who would like similar support are encouraged to contact their local Football Development Officer to find out more information.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 47 Press, Publicity and Marketing

Website Twitter

Our website at www.essexfa.com is the primary source of news and information Twitter is our main engagement tool to interact with stakeholders on for our stakeholders. It’s the main hub for publishing details of our projects, helpful a minute-by-minute basis, sharing information and useful links via our documents and links and descriptions of our core activities and schemes. @EssexCountyFA account to areas of our website. It’s also an efficient way of sharing ‘user-generated content’ and best practice. We use social media to direct people to specific areas of our website, which can sometimes be campaign-driven at seasonal times of the year. It’s a facility for everyone which was ‘Timelines’ move very quickly so this is a more instant form of messaging which rebuilt in 2016 and each page is under constant review to update and improve it, is especially suited to clubs, leagues, organisations and other brands. With a significant in conjunction with the respective Technical Leads for those subject areas. shift away from desktop to mobile and device-based Internet use, the requirement for us to harness the power of social media is greater than ever, and increasing. It informs The sheer size of the website presents challenges, though 144 news stories were people on a previously unachievable scale. produced in 2017/18, contributing to a total of 181,309 unique visitors during the course of the campaign. Ideas for new pages are also being constantly implemented to improve 6,345 tweets were dispatched during 2017/18, resulting in a huge 14,068,000 tweet the website. impressions. Our activities attracted 3,105 new ‘followers’ (total 18,738+) and generated 247,500 ‘profile visits’ when a piece of content has prompted a user to find out more about our organisation. Our account was ‘mentioned’ on a total of 15,590 occasions.

The platform enables us correct some of the misinformation which exists and helps us to educate a varied demographic about processes and the services and possibilities available to them. Extended efforts are planned for the future use of Twitter, with a goal of achieving 32,000 followers by the culmination of the 2018-21 Strategy period.

Facebook

Facebook offers us an additional dimension of interaction with our stakeholders as well as a broadcasting method for a slightly different audience. More personal and individual content works well on Facebook, such as posts relating to referees, representative squads, female football and other communities within the game.

Our page at ‘EssexFootball’ engages, informs and educates widely in a similar fashion to Twitter, though content tends to be in more detail and it lasts longer. Work is ongoing to grow the audience, with a 2018-21 Strategy target of 16,000 in mind. By the end of the 2017/18 season there were 8,196 page ‘likes’ and this will increase, accelerated by paid advertising.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 48 Squad Booster Other Projects

Squad Booster is our main facility to pair teams - who place adverts for new players YouTube - with individuals browsing the portal. Clubs submit an online form with details such as their training and match days and the position/s they require. Following a tender process, a local company was selected to help drive forward our video content and populate our YouTube channel at ‘EssexFA’ with quality content. Video has Batches of adverts are then published on our website each week, then individual tweets are become considerably more popular and is a significant growth area in marketing, scheduled during the following month for additional exposure. The service was re-launched so it’s essential for us to capitalise on it to promote grassroots football. in November with a more efficient process for clubs to submit adverts - down to around four minutes completion time per advert - and a regionalised layout on the web page. E-Mail Newsletters

This has been well-received, with a 100% form completion rate recorded and a total of 677 Using the online E-Mail Marketing platform Mailchimp, we sent our first marketing adverts submitted in 2017/18. Looking ahead, there is more which can be done to work message to a new GDPR-compliant subscription list on Friday 23rd February, and on the on the social media functionality to create more personalised streams for age groups and last Friday of every month thereafter. It contained links to prominent topical news stories locations, and ongoing adjustments are being made to the online form in accordance across various subjects. This is a key area of growth for our marketing in a format which with user feedback. has been explicitly requested of us.

Publications Branding

As part of our overall Marketing & Communications Strategy, publications are Publications, signage and promotional items, as well as online infographics, have a produced each season in either hard or digital formats, or both. The most consistent and eye-catching appearance thanks to the excellent branding work of Jordan prominent of these is our County Handbook which contains reference Blyth at JB Studio. Staff members are able to access Jordan’s services during the season information, rules and regulations each September. Concurrently, a smaller to produce professional-looking items to promote events, projects and courses. Essex County Schools FA Handbook is also published. BBC Essex An Annual Report was created online to chart the business of the County FA for the purposes of sharing these details at the Annual General Meeting in June plus, during All BBC Essex Senior Cup Draws have been broadcast live from the station’s Chelmsford the 2017/18 season, a ‘Moving Forward’ 2018-21 Strategy brochure was designed. studios, as well as the Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals of the Saturday Premier and This highlighted the strategic vision for the organisation for the following three years. Women’s Cups. Host Glenn Speller is a true friend of Essex football, supported by Producer Paul Joslin as well as many staff and special guests. The station also invite us on-air to talk Both the County and Schools Handbooks are published as hard copies about other related subjects. in limited numbers, with a digital edition of each on our website. County Handbooks are sold at cost price, with Schools Local Coverage Handbooks produced for schools officers only. The ongoing viability Many media organisations latch onto our news articles and provide coverage in print of the production of both as hard and online. The Romford Recorder (Lee Power), the Daily Gazette in Colchester copies is under constant review. (Matt Plummer) and the Yellow Advertiser in South Essex (Mick Ferris) have been particularly helpful in the newspaper sector, with The Game Magazine (Daren Cousins) also running a quarterly feature on our activities.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 49 Senior Cup Draw

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 50 Marketing & Communications Strategy To communicate and engage effectively with every football stakeholder in Essex

In 2017/18...

BUILT NEW PAGES INCREASING EXCELLENT ON THE COUNTY 181,309 SOCIAL MEDIA RELATIONSHIP 401 WEBSITE UNIQUE WEBSITE ENGAGEMENT WITH BBC ESSEX NEW FACEBOOK VISITORS PAGE LIKES

NEWS, PUBLICATIONS ENHANCED IMPROVED INTERACTION AND AND DOCUMENTS E-MAIL MARKETING VIDEO AND AUDIO 3,105 FEEDBACK FROM SHARE INFORMATION CAPABILITIES TO CONTENT NEW TWITTER STAKEHOLDERS EACH SEASON HIGHLIGHT LOCAL FOLLOWERS ACTIVITIES

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 51 Awards

FA Grassroots Football Awards presented by McDonald’s Disability

Coach of the Year: Jordan Stringer (Ivory United FC) 1st: Basildon Soccability (Essex Soccability League)

Community Project of the Year: Forest Crusaders Futsal Club Youth Boys (Competitive)

Charter Standard Club of the Year: Saffron Walden Community Youth FC 1st: Basildon Boys Club Under 15s (Leopards) (Southend & District Junior League) 2nd: FC Clacton Under 12s (Blues) (Colchester & District Youth League) Charter Standard League of the Year: Essex Senior League Youth Boys (Non-Competitive) Supporter of the Year: Soledad Hall-Ballina (Island Girls FC) 1st: Wivenhoe Tempest Under 11s (Reds) (Colchester & District Youth League) Volunteer of the Year: Susana Delgado-Curtis (Basildon Boys & Girls Club FC) Youth Girls (Competitive) Young Volunteer of the Year: Alfie Davidson (Frinton & Walton YFC) 1st: Leigh Ramblers Under 15s (Essex County Girls’ League) Groundsman of the Year: David Atton (Lawford FC) 2nd: Hutton Under 18s (Essex County Girls’ League) 3rd: C & K Basildon Under 15s (Essex County Girls’ League) Fair Play Youth Girls (Non-Competitive) Open-Age Male 1st: Frinton & Walton Under 11s (Hurricanes) (Essex County Girls’ League) 1st: Danbury & Bicknacre (Pope & Smith Chelmsford Sunday League) 2nd: Leigh Ramblers Under 10s (Essex County Girls’ League) 2nd: Railway Academicals Reserve Team (Saturday) (Southend Borough & District 3rd: Springfield Under 10s (Essex County Girls’ League) Football Combination) 3rd: Dunmow Rhodes (Braintree & North Essex Sunday League) Long Service Certificate (10 Years)

Open-Age Female Mark Rule (Referee) John Meates (Springfield FC) Paul Brown (Wickford Town FC) Mick Lee (Durham FC, Basildon & District Sunday 1st: Beacon Hill Rovers (Essex County Women’s League) David Beckett (Writtle Minors YFC) League) 2nd: Alresford Colne Rangers (Essex County Women’s League) Darren Andrews (Prittlewell FC) Alan Blanchett (Colchester & District Youth League) Lee Stevens (Bowers & Pitsea FC) Greg Coe (Essex County Girls' League) Barry Hubbard (Bowers & Pitsea FC) Kevin Howard (Referee) David Wareham (Springfield FC) Dean Roberts (Essex Royals FC)

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 52 Exemplary Service (20 Years) FA 50-Year Award

John Ledger (Southend Sunday League) Bob Brimacombe (Referee, Mid Essex League, Essex Veterans League) David Czyzewicz (Referee) Chris Baker (United Ockendon FC) Rob Whitton (Southend Sunday League) Dave Ambrose (Kelvedon Swifts YFC, Kelvedon & Feering United FC, Kelvedon Victoria FC) Janet Bushell (Trinity YFC) Dennis Wyman (Upminster Park Rovers YFC) Alan Friend (Referee, Essex Olympian League) Lawrence Segal (OK Jewish Youth Club FC, London Accountants’ League, Essex County FA, Dawn Barnard (Essex County Women’s League, Essex County Girls’ League) Referee, Westhamians FC, Echo Junior League) John Farrant (Referee, Basildon Referees Society, Basildon & District Sunday League) Len Llewellyn (Engine Plant Controllers FC, Ford Inter-Departmental League, Ford United John Brooks (Hale End Athletic FC) FC, Ilford FC, Braintree Town FC, Isthmian League, Essex Senior League, Barkingside FC) Kim Farmer (Colchester Town Girls FC, Colchester Town Ladies FC, Essex County Lt Col Peter Andrews OBE (Colchester & District Youth League) Girls’ League) Mick Willmore (Thorpe Social FC, Thorpe Rangers FC, Clacton Monarchs FC, David Hill (Southend Sunday League) Holland Royals FC, Harlequins FC, Weeley Athletic FC, Blacksmith Arms FC, FC Clacton Town, Brightlingsea United FC, Essex & Suffolk Border League, Clacton Sunday League, Outstanding Service (30 Years) Essex County FA)Richard Myers (Parndon Royals FC, Harlow & District Sunday League, Arthurian Saturday League)Terry King (Rainham Town FC, Aveley FC) Sue Stanfield (Echo Junior League) Michael Thomas (Southend Sunday League) #CelebrateEssex Volunteer Awards Ronald Bright (Southend Sunday League) Roger Bowman (Colchester & District Sunday League) #CelebrateEssex is a new, monthly volunteer recognition scheme launched in March Paul Blackwell (Essex County Girls’ League, Island Girls FC, Southfields FC) with Footie Mum via the Essex County FA’s Twitter account. Michael Fry (Woodham Radars FC) Malcolm Shaw (Southminster Youth FC, Referee, Blackwater & Dengie Youth League) It aims to promote inspirational personal examples and stories, encouraging new faces Keith Handley (Heathwell United FC, Essex Senior League) to get involved and grow the grassroots community. Once nominations close, a select Dave Duffett (Referee) group is chosen for a Twitter poll to identify the monthly winner, who receives a prize.

Award of Merit (40 Years) Footie Mum: Lisa Ursell Supporter: Millie (Grays Athletic FC) Lawrence Segal (Essex Senior League) Treasurer: Jack Smith (Concord Rangers FC) Norman French (Byron Red Star FC) Footie Dad: Jason Plunkett Michael Nunn (Debden Sports FC) Chairperson: Keith Di Palma (Tigers JFC) Dick Royce (Great Baddow FC) Stuart Rose (Mid Essex League) Ken Pearce (Mid Essex League) Dave Medlock (Rayleigh Town FC)

Brian King [Left] Lawrence Segal [Right]

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 53 Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 54 Awards (Awards Evening) Schools and Colleges

It is again a great honour to be able to report on another eventful and successful Congratulations to the Girls Under 16s in beating Surrey, 4-0, to win the SEESFA Trophy. season. The Essex County Schools FA would like to begin by thanking the entire Well done, and commiserations, to the Boys Under 18s and Under 14s sides, plus the Girls voluntary workforce who give up so much of their time for the benefit Under 14s, as losing finalists in their respective SEESFA competitions. The Schools FA would of schools football. like to thank Andy Tickner for his organisation of SEESFA fixtures throughout the season.

It was a season that saw the sad loss of some extremely influential and long-serving The Essex County Schools FA’s 15 individual competition finals were completed on time individuals in schools football. Ray Carter, Terry Moore, Doug Insole and Reg Winters and to the standard they are striving to maintain, save for the odd hiccup. The hosting were individuals who, in their own way, contributed a huge amount to schools football of three finals on one day was a success at the excellent Aveley FC facility. and, as true gentlemen, will be sorely missed. We would like to thank Martin Rayner - stepping down at the end of the season - for the In national competitions, the Under 18s Boys were successful in retaining the English enormous amount of work that he has done with entries and affiliations, and as Girls Schools FA Inter-County Trophy at Stoke City FC, 2-1 against Humberside. Congratulations, Competition Secretary. The Schools FA would also like to thank Graham Farquhar for also, to Barking Abbey Girls on retaining their ESFA National Individual Girls Schools his work as Under 11s Competition Secretary. Trophy, 3-0 against Thomas Telford at Notts County FC. Thanks, also, to Dave Agass as Competition Secretary for the District Competitions. Newham District were also successful in winning the ESFA Under 11s Danone District Once again the Schools FA express gratitude to all County Managers for their time, 7-a-Side Trophy at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Congratulations, and commiserations, to the and the expertise given, throughout the season. county girls’ Under 16s on losing their national final 1-0 against Lancashire at Stoke City FC. One of the main factors in helping the ECSFA to maintain its success is the support of the Plus to Shenfield School Under 18s Boys as losing finalists in the Elite Schools and Colleges staff at the Essex County FA, so the Schools FA would like to thank Brendan Walshe Trophy. Shenfield Under 12s Boys were additionally runners-up in the PlayStation 9-a-Side (Chief Executive), Chris Evans (Press & Publicity Officer), James Lisher and Lukas Wood Competition. (Referees Department), Mark Wallis (Competitions Officer), Emma Burden and Danielle Warnes (Development Officers) for their continued support. In South-East England (SEESFA) competitions it does seem that they have increasingly taken a chaotic and, at times, unsavoury element. The Schools FA would like to thank Dave A special thankyou to Rob Craven for his work in producing such informative and Playford (Hon Competition Secretary for the 14s-16s age groups) for his work over the last high-quality matchday programmes for the numerous county and individual schools 20 years. finals during the season.

Dave has always organised the competitions in a firm, well-considered and fair manner The Schools FA would also like to thank Phil Sammons for his support this season, and his experience will be missed as he stands down at the end of the season. on returning to the fold as Honorary Secretary after his 20-year sabbatical as Chief Executive of the County FA. Thanks, also, to the increasing number of retired General Purposes Committee officers for their invaluable support for schools football.

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 55 Thank you to the following for the use of their facilities for county matches and finals this season:

London Playing Fields, Fairlop, Aveley FC, Brentwood School, Canvey Island FC, Shenfield School, Len Forge Centre, Lakeside FC, Moulsham High School, Brampton Manor School, Kingsford Community School, Harlow Town and Melbourne Park.

Finally, the challenges that impact on schools football only seem to increase year by year. The influence and pressures of the professional game, financial pressures on the ESFA, child protection issues, transportation costs, teachers’ time.

Volunteer support of schools football, the increasing involvement of coaches replacing trained physical educationalists, the growth of youth football…. the list goes on. It is the Schools FA’s hope that the values and standards of schools football set by the ECSFA can be maintained going forward. Schools Finals

Schools Finals

Schools Finals Under 14s Schools Team

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 56 Schools Competitions 2017/18

District Individual Schools Alan Child Under 16s Trophy Wednesday 2nd May, Aveley FC LF Birmingham Cup Under 12s Parish Under 11s Cup Bromfords 7-3 St Thomas More Saturday 9th June, Noak Hill Sports Complex Friday 4th May, Lakeside FC Chelmsford & Mid Essex 1-1 Basildon (8-7 on pens) George Carey 3-1 Grove Wood RH Pratt Under 19s Trophy for Schools Wednesday 18th April 2018, Canvey Island FC HJ Welsh Under 13s Jim Smith Under 11s Seven-a-Side Memorial Cup St Thomas More 0-0 King John (5-6 on penalties) Saturday 19th May, Brampton Manor Academy Tuesday 8th May, Shenfield High School Havering 1-0 Thurrock Lee Chapel 1-2 Shenfield St Mary’s Bryon Coomer Under 19s Trophy for Colleges Wednesday 2nd May, Aveley FC Jas T Clark Under 14s Girls Under 11s Seven-a-Side Rushcroft 4-1 Barking Abbey Saturday 23rd June, Kingsford Community School Thursday 19th October, Melbourne Park Newham 3-1 Redbridge Heycroft beat Plumberow Under 19s 2nd Division Trophy Wednesday 9th May, Aveley FC Robert Johnson Under 15s Under 11s Small Schools Seven-a-Side Shoeburyness High 2-5 Sir George Monoux Saturday 30th June, Aveley FC Thursday 29th November 2017, Melbourne Park Havering 3-1 Newham Loyola Prep School beat Brentwood Prep Under 19s 3rd Division Trophy Wednesday 2nd May, Aveley FC FL Finch Shield Under 11s Ken Aston Under 12s Trophy Brampton Manor 5-4 Moulsham High Winners: Barking & Dagenham Tuesday 17th April, Len Forge Centre Runners-up: Thurrock Great Baddow 1-1 Woodlands (6-7 on penalties) Under 19s Open Competition Wednesday 23rd May, Lakeside FC FL Finch Cup Under 11s Chairman’s Under 13s Trophy Shenfield HS 3-4Rushcroft (after extra time) Thursday 17th May, Noak Hill Sports Complex Wednesday 25th April, Shenfield High School Thurrock 4-3 Redbridge Great Baddow 2-4 St Bonaventure’s John Edwards Under 13s Girls Trophy Thursday 19th April, Moulsham High School Under 11s Girls’ Seven-a-Side Alf E Wood Under 14s Jubilee Cup Philip Morant 0-11 Shenfield High Saturday 24th March, Barking Abbey School Wednesday 9th May, Aveley FC Winners: Barking & Dagenham Beauchamps 5-1 William Edwards George Cash Under 14s Girls Trophy Wednesday 18th April, Moulsham High School Under 11s Boys’ Seven-a-Side Robert Cook Under 15s Cup Passmores 5-2 Eastwood Saturday 11th November, Shenfield High School Wednesday 9th May, Aveley FC Winners: Newham Hall Mead 1-1 Colne (abandoned, 76 minutes) Reg Winters Under 16s Girls Trophy Friday 27th April, Lakeside FC William Edwards 5-2 Cornelius Vermuyden

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 57 Schools and Colleges Under 19s Leagues Division 2 Southend Division 3 Southend

Division 1a P W D L GD PTS P W D L GD PTS Newham College 1 9 6 1 2 26 19 South Essex College (Thurrock) 8 7 1 0 26 22 P W D L GD PTS Westcliff 1 10 6 0 4 6 18 Chase High 7 3 0 4 4 9 Havering College 1 13 9 2 2 33 29 Southend Community 1 9 4 1 4 -4 13 Palmers College 3 7 2 2 3 -2 8 Barking Abbey 15 7 3 5 2 24 Shoeburyness High 8 3 1 4 -19 10 Sweyne Park 4 1 2 1 -4 5 SEEVIC 15 6 4 5 -6 22 Campion 6 3 0 3 9 9 Southend Community 2 6 0 1 5 -24 1 Rushcroft 1 11 3 4 4 1 13 Havering Sixth Form 1 8 1 1 6 -18 4 Palmers College 1 13 2 5 6 -22 11 Division 3 London Shenfield High 11 3 0 8 -8 9 Division 2 London P W D L GD PTS Division 1b P W D L GD PTS Brampton Manor 10 8 0 2 34 24 Sir George Monoux 9 6 1 2 14 19 Roding Valley 2 10 7 1 2 19 22 P W D L GD PTS Leyton 9 3 4 2 9 13 Newham College 2 10 7 0 3 17 21 St Thomas More 14 9 2 3 31 29 Rushcroft 6 3 1 2 7 10 Havering College 3 8 3 0 5 -10 9 Plume 1 14 8 4 2 36 28 Davenant 8 3 1 4 -4 10 Ilford County High 7 1 0 6 -14 3 Southend High 1 13 7 2 4 6 23 St Bonaventure’s 1 7 2 1 4 -11 7 Redbridge College 9 0 1 8 -46 1 Gable Hall 1 11 5 1 7 -4 16 Havering College 2 7 1 2 4 -15 5 King John 13 4 4 5 -16 16 Division 3 Play-Off Semi-Finals: St Bonaventure’s 3-3 Roding Valley (1-4 Appleton 13 0 1 12 -53 1 Division 2 Play-Off Semi-Finals: Newham College W-L on penalties), Brampton Manor 3-0 South Essex College Colchester Institute, Colchester Sixth Form College 0-4 Division 2 North Sir George Monoux Division 3 Play-Off Final: Roding Valley 3-3 Brampton Manor (4-1 on penalties) P W D L GD PTS Division 2 Play-Off Final: Newham College 4-4 Sir George Monoux (4-3 on Colchester Sixth Form 1 8 8 0 0 20 24 penalties) Colchester Institute 1 10 6 1 3 9 19 Division 3 North Colne 9 4 1 4 5 13 Chelmsford College 1 9 4 1 4 -3 13 P W D L GD PTS Braintree Sixth Form 10 3 2 5 3 11 Moulsham High 6 6 0 0 32 18 Clacton Coastal 11 3 1 7 -24 10 Colchester Sixth Form 2 6 2 0 4 -12 6 Palmers College 2 11 2 2 7 -10 8 Chelmsford College 2 5 2 0 3 -13 6 Colchester Institute 2 5 1 0 4 -7 3

Schools Finals

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 58 County Schools Teams 2017/18 Under 15s Boys

Under 14s Boys Management Team: Dave Agass MBE, Keith Thwaites, Dave Croker

Team Manager: Matt Double Squad: Ben Murphy (Trinity), Samuel Bayon (Brampton Manor Academy), Ted Penn (C) (Marshalls Park), Jack Glenister (Marshalls Park), Squad: Callum McEvoy (West Hatch), Rhian Fowler (Sanders School), Mason McCorkell (Heathcote), Matthew Adekoya (Warren), Alfie Smith (Harris Academy Chafford Hundred), Tyreece Cyrus (Heathcote), Prashante Paul (Brampton Manor Academy), Lukas Zabulionis (Anglo European), Callum Glanville (West Hatch), Joseph Ling (Woodbridge), Dennis Rusevicius (All Saints), Michael Bareck (Woodlands), George Hatcher (Abbs Cross Academy), Damani Hunter (Chingford), Tobias Braney (Ormiston Rivers Academy), Mathew Newberry (Emerson Park Academy), Max Gnandi (Hall Mead), Charlie Tremayne (West Hatch), Kacy Parish (Shenfield), Rashaun Mathurin (Wanstead), Kai Stephen (St Edward's Church of England), Ayo Shogbeni (Beal Academy), Andre Anderson (Lammas), Kenny Coker (Beauchamps), Tommy Lawrence (Heathcote) Luke May (Heathcote), Tom Stagg (Shenfield), Agostinho Sol Nanque (Newham)

English Schools FA Cup South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA)

Round One: 4th November 2017, Oxfordshire, 4-0 (London Marathon Playing 18th November 2017, Suffolk, 4-0 (Haverhill) Fields, Fairlop) 2nd December 2017, Bedfordshire, 2-0 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) Round Two: 25 November 2017, Surrey, 0-6 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) 10th March 2018, Norfolk, 1-1 (City of Norwich School) Inner London (Match Awarded) South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA) W W D L F A PTS 18th November 2017, Suffolk, 4-3 (Haverhill) Essex 4 3 1 0 7 1 10 2nd December 2017, , 6-2 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) Bedfordshire Norfolk 4 2 2 0 12 2 8 24th February 2018, Hertfordshire, 4-3 (Kingsford School) Bedfordshire 4 2 1 1 17 8 7 3rd March 2018, Hertfordshire, 4-3 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) 10th March 2018, Norfolk, 5-1 (City of Norwich School) Inner London 3 0 0 3 2 12 0 17th March 2018, Inner London, 6-1 (Brampton Manor Academy) Suffolk 3 0 0 3 3 18 0

W W D L F A PTS Semi-Final: 21st April 2018, Kent, 2-4 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) Essex 5 5 0 0 25 10 15 Hertfordshire 5 4 0 1 21 11 12 Suffolk 4 1 0 3 9 12 3 Bedfordshire 4 1 0 2 9 13 3 Inner London 3 1 0 2 5 10 3 Norfolk 5 1 0 4 3 16 3

Semi-Final: 28 April 2018, Kent, 4-1 (Kingsford School) Final: 14 May 2018, Surrey, 1-2 (Harlow Town FC)

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 59 Under 16s Boys Under 18s Boys

Team Managers: Carl Papworth, Liam Saxton Managers: Graham Hall, Andy Tickner, Graham Penn, Jeff Saxton, Fred Saxton

Squad: Kaya Ali (Roding Valley), Donnell Ofori (Palmer Catholic Academy), Squad: James Scammell (Newham College), Ryan Knight (Barking Abbey), Deolindo (Rokeby), Jack Martin (Tabor Academy), Tayeeb Elegushi (St Edward’s), Jack McQueen (Barking Abbey), James Jolliffe (Shenfield), Sam Mvemba (Barking Abbey), Callum Owen (Brittons), Kakha Jojshelidza (William Edwards), Wyan Reid (Rushcroft Foundation), Misha Djemili (Barking Abbey), Byron Humbles (Beauchamps), Toki Hassan (St John Payne), Josh Okpa (Kingsford), Tyler Richardson (Shenfield), Kieran Southgate (Newham College), Jack Renwick (Plume), Tyler Caverner (Gateway Academy), Bailey Hossack (Brittons), Albert Keith (C) (Ockendon Academy), Afolabi Soyenmi-Ololade (Palmer’s College), James Lickford (Chelmer Valley), Freddy King (Notley), Reggie Hubbard (Debden), Enock Soganile (Shenfield), Callum Fitzer (Chelmsford College), Connor Tyrell (Shenfield), Miles Peterkin (Davenant Foundation), Charlie Page (Epping St John), Jamie Marsh (Havering College), Ibrahim Ugrader (Barking Abbey), Tom Duffy (William Edwards), Owen Young (Shoebury), Tajudeen Salawu (Barking Abbey). Ted Cattini, (Harris Academy Chafford Hundred), Peter Mokunege (St Bonaventure’s), Special Award (25 appearances): Tyler Richardson Jack Hauser (King Edmund), Deolindo Liama (Rokeby) Friendlies English Schools FA Cup 5th November 2017, South Independent Schools, A Team 0-3, B Team 0-4, C Team 0-4 Second Round: 25th November 2017, Middlesex, 3-1 (Brunel University) (Brentwood School) Third Round: 13th January 2018, Surrey, 1-4 (Chigwell School) English Schools FA Cup South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA) Second Round: 1st December 2017, Sussex, 1-0 (Brentwood School) 18th November 2017, Suffolk, 5-0 (Haverhill) Third Round: 27th January 2018, Worcestershire, 5-0 (Noak Hill Sports Centre) 2nd December 2017, Bedfordshire, 8-3 (London Marathon Playing Fields, Fairlop) Semi-Final: 23rd February 2018, Kent, 2-0 (Maidstone United FC) 24th February 2018, Hertfordshire, 1-1 (Brampton Manor Academy) Final: 12th May 2018, Humberside, 2-1 (Stoke City FC) 10th March 2018, Norfolk, 0-2 South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA) W W D L F A PTS Hertfordshire 4 3 0 0 9 2 10 13th October 2017, Hampshire, 0-0 (Lakeside, Thurrock) 26th March 2018, , 4-1 (Berkhamsted Town FC) Norfolk 4 2 1 1 8 3 7 Hertfordshire 23rd April 2018, Sussex, 2-3 (Steyning FC) Essex 4 2 1 1 9 6 7 Inner London 4 0 2 2 2 4 2 Bedfordshire 4 0 3 3 6 19 1

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 60 Under 14s Girls Under 16s Girls

Managers: Danielle Warnes, Georgina Maxwell-Jones Managers: Jo Sibley, Sasha McDonald, Georgia Maxwell-Jones, Emma Burden

Squad: Lilly Hadrava (Marshalls Park), Francesca Whiting (Appleton), Squad: Evie Anderson (16 appearances) (Eastwood Academy), Keanne Jervier (Brentwood Ursuline), Leonie Telford (Philip Morant), Boo Mills (Shenfield), Olivia Billson (29) (C) (Chelmer Valley), Poppy Binding (8) (Abbs Cross), Ruby Sealey (Philip Morant), Jessica Wright (Sacred Heart of Mary), Jessie Burke (13) (Trinity Catholic), Bethany Chambers (6) (Chingford Foundation), Rebecca Alderton (Tabor Academy), Millie Stacey (Brentwood School), Emilia Dingwall (4) (Shoeburyness), Lucy Edmeades (20) (Shenfield), Freya Godfrey (St Martin’s), Megan Wearing (Chingford Foundation), Holly Foley (25) (Harris Academy Chafford Hundred), Lauren Hart (13)(Gable Hall), Brooke Hunt (Eastwood Academy), Ruby Kilden (Manningtree), Suzy Hayes (25) (Highams Park), Abbie Jackson (15) (FitzWimarc), Melia La (Ockendon Academy), Lily Sokhi (Sandon), Phoebe Keys (Moulsham), Ellie Nicholls (23) (Shoeburyness), Emilia Parsons (10) (Bancroft), Haneeka Thandi (Westcliff), Mia Filipiak (Coopers’ Company and Coborn), Hannah Smith (19) (Plume Academy), Maisy Wyer (9) (Hall Mead), Mia Lempriere (Gable Hall), Antonietta Green (Bower Park Academy), Robyn Moody (8) (Gaynes), Freya Fuller (8) (Billericay), Macey Woolcock (FitzWimarc), Marni Harriman (FitzWimarc), Maddie Biggs (8) (Frances Bardsley) Terri Olejnik (St John’s School ), Caitlin Holliday (Thurstable) English Schools FA Cup English Schools FA Cup Qualifier: 9th December 2017,Hertfordshire , 5-3 (Moulsham School) First Round: 23rd November 2017, Berkshire, 3-2 (Thatcham Town FC) Quarter-Finals: 10th February 2018, Wiltshire, 5-3 (after extra time) (Melbourne Park) Second Round: 4th January 2018, West Midlands, 0-4 (Boldmere St Michael's FC) Semi-Finals: 7th March 2018, Sussex, 2-0 (Aveley FC) Final: 12th May 2018, Lancashire, 0-1 (Stoke City FC) South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA) South-East England Schools FA Competition (SEESFA) 13th October 2017, Hampshire, 0-0 (Lakeside, Thurrock) 26th March 2018, Hertfordshire, 4-1 (Berkhamsted Town FC) 9th December 2017, Hertfordshire, 5-3 (Moulsham High School) 23rd April 2018, Sussex, 2-3 (Steyning FC) 20th December 2017, Bedfordshire, 9-1 (Flitwick Football Centre) 20th December 2017, Bedfordshire, 2-0 (Flitwick Football Centre) 13th January 2018, Suffolk, 3-1 (Woodbridge Town FC) 13th January 2018, Suffolk, 3-0 (Woodbridge Town FC) 16th February 2018, Cambridgeshire, 10-0 (Melbourne Park) 16th February 2018, Cambridgeshire, 6-0 (Melbourne Park) 24th February 2018, Hertfordshire, 3-2 (Shenfield High School) W W D L F A PTS Semi-Final: 14th April 2018, Kent, 2-1 (Moulsham High School) Essex 4 4 0 0 27 5 12 Final: 17th May 2018, , 2-2 (after extra time) (Aveley FC) Sussex Bedfordshire 4 3 0 1 24 14 9 Hertfordshire 4 2 0 2 13 18 6 W W D L F A PTS Suffolk 4 2 0 2 11 16 6 Essex 4 4 0 0 14 2 12 Cambridgeshire 4 0 0 4 8 30 0 Hertfordshire 4 2 0 2 18 11 6 Suffolk 4 2 0 2 14 6 6 Semi-Finals: 7th March 2018, Sussex, 2-0 (Aveley FC) Bedfordshire 3 1 0 3 5 9 3 Final: 25th May 2018, Surrey, 4-0 (Walton Casuals FC) Cambridgeshire 3 0 0 3 5 15 0

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 61 In Conclusion

Within this report we’ve had the privilege to highlight the extent that the grassroots football family is having a positive impact on the game we all know and love. Quite simply, without the efforts and commitment of our volunteer workforce in the football-rich county of Essex, thousands of people wouldn’t be able to enjoy participating.

Thank you, all. We also express our sincere gratitude to those whose outstanding work continues to make the game an enjoyable experience. Also, during the course of the season, a number of members of our community who had served football well have been sadly lost and will be hugely missed by us all. We pay tribute, and send our condolences to their families.

Brendan Walshe Chief Executive and Company Secretary

Frinton & Walton YFC

Essex County Football Association Annual Report (2017/18) 62 Little Oakley FC Essex County Football Association The County Office, Springfield Lyons Approach, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 5LB.

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